Research shows Halloween is growing in popularity among adults. This year nearly 1 in 3 adults will attend a Halloween party, and those at AAA are offering some tips on how to stay safe while still having fun.

According to the National Retail Federation, Halloween parties for adults are increasing in popularity. This year, approximately 30% of adults will celebrate with others.

Denice Harris, AAA Spokesperson, says, “The Retail Federation shows that costume sales are up this year, and more and more people are going to be out celebrating the Halloween holiday, especially 18-24 year olds.”

On Halloween night 2008, 58% of all traffic fatalities in the United States involved a driver with a Blood Alcohol Content above the legal limit. That’s why AAA is cautioning partygoers to be responsible and plan ahead before enjoying the festivities.

Harris explains, “It’s important to have a plan, especially if you’re going to involve alcohol, and we just urge people to not drink and drive, have a designated driver, or perhaps stay overnight wherever you may be going, and that way you’re not just out on the road. We just don’t need anybody drinking and driving.”

James Burkholder, M.D., a family physician at St. Peter’s Hospital, adds, “Alcohol-related driving is obviously the biggest issue, so I think it’s important for adults to be able to have a designated sober driver, make sure that they are providing, if they’re having a party, beverages that are non-alcoholic.”

Legions of pedestrians walking the streets trick-or-treating means an increased potential for accidents, and Montanans are being reminded to think about traffic safety.

Harris says, “There’s going to be a lot of children out tomorrow night, and so if you can just avoid those areas, you’re safer, you got kids all over the place, and it’s just best not to have vehicles around there, too.”

Halloween Tips From AAA Include:

-Designate a sober driver in advance. If intending to drink alcohol, plan ahead to get home safely by selecting a designated driver or ensuring cab service is available from the party location. Never ride with a driver who has been drinking.

-Consider an overnight stay. If attending a party at a friend’s home, consider asking to stay overnight. If participating in festivities in a downtown or commercial area, look into hotel accommodations within walking distance. Many hotels offer special Halloween weekend rates and promotions.

-Do not let impaired guests drive. If hosting a Halloween party, remind guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, offer alcohol-free beverages and do not allow impaired guests to drive. Prepare a list of local taxi companies in advance to have ready should guests need to call one.

-Avoid traveling through residential areas. If possible, try to avoid cutting through residential areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be present. If providing directions to a party, try not to route guests through residential areas unnecessarily.

-Watch for children in the street. While trick-or-treating, children may not pay attention to traffic and might cross mid-block or between parked cars. Motorists should scan far ahead when driving in residential areas, watch for children and cautiously monitor their actions.

-Obey the speed limit. Motorists should obey the posted speed limit. When driving through residential areas were trick-or-treaters are likely out, consider driving five miles per hour less than the posted speed limit.

For additional tips to keep Halloween safe, including tips for parents and trick-or-treaters, visit AAA.com/PublicAffairs.