"The parents have the responsibility of taking care of their children and the motorists on the roadways have the responsibility to look out for those children," said Gainesville Police Lt. Kevin Holbrook.
He says putting down cell phones and other distractions can easily prevent an accident.
"That's a very big distraction and unfortunately it can have deadly consequences," said Holbrook.
It is illegal in Georgia to text and drive.
Holbrook also suggests driving under the speed limit and paying close attention to your surroundings.
"The children are not going to be watching for vehicles. They're excited, they're ready to get out there and get their candy and have fun, vehicles are the last thing they are thinking about."
Watch out for stopped vehicles as well. Holbrook says it's common for parents to drive their children from street to street and periodically drop them off. Also be aware going in and out of driveways.
"As children are going house to house, many times they don't stay on sidewalks, they will be in the roadway, they'll be cutting in through yards," Holbrook said.
Don't forget to be wary outside of subdivisions, on major roadways, such as Jesse Jewell and E.E. Butler Parkways in the city, and on roads with apartment complexes.
"We have a number of apartment complexes in a close proximity of each other, these children will walk from one complex to the next complex and they'll be utilizing the well traveled roadways," Holbrook said.
Holbrook said there hasn't much trouble in Gainesville in the past, but he said this year isn't the year to start having issues. He suggests if you see a reckless driver, contact your local law enforcement.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/10/267356