FRAMINGHAM - Halloween is approaching, and AAA is promoting ways trick-or-treaters and all other residents can stay safe while partaking in the festivities.

Senior Spokesperson for AAA Northeast Mark Schieldrop explained that one of the things the organization looks to preach during this time of year is for drivers to operate responsibly. That includes slowing down while in residential neighborhoods, checking for kids within the streets and sidewalks, and ensuring that there is a designated driver responsible for bringing home people celebrating at Halloween parties.

“Halloween is the worst day for child pedestrian crashes...in Massachusetts,” Schieldrop explained, adding that 57 pedestrians under the age of 18 have been involved in crashes on October 31 since 2002.

“It is, by far, the day where we see the most children struck by cars.”

Those kids on the hunt for candy should also be prepped in order to ensure safety. Schieldrop recommends trick-or-treaters to stay in a group of people, carry a flashlight, stay on sidewalks, stop only at houses that are well lit, and set routes and times to finish ahead of time while staying in communication with parents or guardians.

Schieldrop added that costumes should also be tailored for safety. Halloween outfits should be flame-retardant and feature materials that are reflective and visible to others. Items that block vision or movement should be kept at home, while younger children should have a slip with their name, address, and a contact number with their costume at all times.

With all of that in mind, Schieldrop noted that the best neighborhoods for residents to explore on Halloween may not be their own.

“Sometimes, folks find that they have to get in the car and maybe drive to a different neighborhood to have a safe and successful trick-or-treating,” he continued.

“You’re going to get more candy that way, but you’re also going to be a little safer.”

For a full list of Halloween safety tips, visit AAA’s website by clicking here.