Trick
or Treating should be one of the great adventures of Halloween for
children. The excitement of the children and adults sometimes makes them
forget to be careful. Simple common sense can do a lot to stop any
tragedies from happening. Here are a few safety tips from the Belvedere
Police Department that can protect your children who plan on going
trick-or-treating this Halloween.
Below are just a few common safety tips that can help.
Candy, Fruit, and other Treats:
Parents/guardians
should inspect the commercially wrapped treats for signs of tampering,
for example, unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pin holes, or
tears in the wrappers. Furthermore discard any homemade candy and baked
goods, unless you know the person giving the treat.
POISON CONTROL 1-800-222-1222 (Toll Free)
Pedestrian Safety:
Young
children should ALWAYS be accompanied by an adult or older responsible
child. If you decide to go out after dark, ensure you are wearing
brightly colored costumes which will be more readily visible to passing
motorist. Children should WALK, not run house to house and use the
sidewalks regularly. If you need to use the street, look both ways and
check for vehicles before entering to roadway. DO NOT run into traffic
and be especially cautions if you are wearing a dark costume. If
possible, attempt to cross the street at intercession and not mid-block.
Driver Safety:
DRIVE SLOWLY and be cautious especially in
residential neighborhoods where children are present. Be cautious and
use proper signals when driving. Try to take main roads instead of side
streets. If possible, conduct your business during daylight hours.
Motorists
should watch for children darting out from between parked cars and
walking on roadways. Also, when driving, be sure to enter and exit
driveways carefully. Parents, make sure your child can be seen,
especially when it gets dark. Remind the kids to look both ways before
crossing the street and to use the crosswalks at intersections.
The Belvedere Police Officers wish you a safe and fun Halloween!