Drivers are being urged to be especially safety conscious on Thursday night for Hallowe'en.
AA Ireland is asking people to do their part to keep our roads safe - particularly when driving through estates and cul-de-sacs, where a high number of children could be trick-or-treating.
It is warning that the darker conditions following the changing of the clocks may lead to reduced visibility.
It is also urging drivers to reduce their speed, particularly when driving through built up areas, and to be on the lookout for children who could step onto the street without looking.
It is also asking them to be alert for pedestrians who are accompanying their children while trick-or-treating, and animals who could be startled by fireworks.
AA spokesperson Barry Aldworth says: "Now that the clocks have gone back, we have entered into the true start of the winter season and motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike will have noticed the darker conditions when commuting home from work in the evening.
Children dressed up for the Ballymun Otherworld Festival in Ballymun, Dublin in 2018 | Image: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie"When you combine this with post-work fatigue, the winter season is always a dangerous time on our roads so it's important that motorists drive with extra caution over the coming weeks and months and to check that your lights are functioning correctly.
"The risk of an accident can be further heightened on Hallowe'en night as there will be an increased number of children on the roads, particularly in estates and built-up areas, as well as the risk of animals being startled by fireworks.
"It's important that motorists bear this in mind when travelling on Thursday night and amend their behaviour by slowing down and remaining vigilant, while we would also encourage adults who may be accompanying their children tomorrow night to take some time to discuss the importance of road safety."
AA Ireland is also encouraging home-owners to ensure that any candles, jack-o-lanterns or open flames are kept away from flammable items in their home.
While those with pets are being advised to keep them in a quiet, safe part of the house to minimise the risk of the animal becoming startled and potentially knocking over an open flame.
