1. Ensure that your child carries a flashlight or glow stick and/or wears something reflective to alert drivers of the child’s location.
2. Masks can restrict vision and breathing, face painting is a safe option.
3. Costumes should fit children correctly and not drag the ground, which could create a tripping hazard.
4. Children should be accompanied by adults/parents and should not be allowed to enter homes or vehicles without their supervision.
5. Plan your trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets.
6. Always walk on sidewalks when available. If walking on the street is necessary, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
7. Children should also know their address, phone number, and how to dial 911 for emergencies. Young children should have this information attached somewhere on their costume in the event they get separated or lost.
8. Parents are urged to inspect all candy for safety after returning home.
9. Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
10. Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
Motorists should also use caution this Halloween weekend. With all the trick or treating excitement, children may inadvertently dart across the street into the path of moving vehicles. Because of this, motorists are being asked to not only drive with extreme caution, but also to drive extra slow in neighborhoods and residential areas. By driving with headlights on during daylight hours, children, as well as other vehicles, are more likely to see them from greater distances.
Citizens are encouraged to review the list of registered sex offenders living near their neighborhood. The mapping and address feature found on the website pinpoints exactly where an offender lives, therefore, educating citizens on which houses to avoid while trick-or-treating.
Under current State Law, it is illegal for a registered sex offender to participate in Halloween trick or treat activities. If you become aware of a sex offender who is attending costume parties where children are present or giving out candy, notify your local law enforcement immediately.
