10/31/2011 - How To Keep Halloween Safe

How To Keep Halloween Safe

The New Jersey State Police are reminding everyone to play it safe while having fun this Halloween.

  • Parents and people operating motor vehicles should be on high alert at all times, aware of the surrounding environment at all times and making sure all children are traveling on sidewalks, accompanied by an adult.

  • Those handing out candy from home should never feel obligated to open the door for anyone if they have a concern about their personal safety at any time. Residents are also urged to check with their municipal officials about designated trick-or-treating hours.

  • The police urge parents to consider using make-up for children's costumes rather than vision-hindering masks, which could make it difficult to see oncoming traffic.

  • Adults should always accompany children. Teens should travel in groups for safety.

  • Light-colored clothing or reflective tape added to darker costumes should be utilized. Inexpensive blinking road-travel lights can be found in many drug stores and convenience stores to alert motorists.

  • Trick-or-treating during daylight hours is the optimal time for safe candy gathering.

  • Trick-or-treaters should only approach houses with outside lights on and should never enter a stranger's home or vehicle.

  • Anyone attending a Halloween party where alcohol is served should make sure a designated driver is available prior to the party. Driving under the influence on a night children may be roaming the streets in dark-colored clothing can have disastrous consequences.

  • Regardless of whether or not a child (or anyone, for that matter) is wearing a costume, everyone needs to buckle up while traveling.

  • Consider handing out something other than candy: Fast food coupons, pens, sports cards, etc.

  • All open candy should be thrown out. Period. All other candy should receive parental inspection and approval before consumption.