Newtown Police Shares Safety Tips for Halloween

NEWTOWN, CT — The Newtown Police Department is offering some safety tips to area residents to ensure everyone has a happy and safe Halloween. Sgt. A. Bahamonde sent the following release:

"Halloween is on Monday, October 31st and the Newtown Police Department would like to take a moment to discuss a few safety reminders so your ghouls and goblins can have a safe night of trick-or-treats! Halloween is a time when family and friends come together for celebration. Drivers are reminded to be watchful for children crossing the street," said Sgt. Aaron Bahamonde. "Always designate a driver before consuming alcohol. Newtown Officers will be out in force this Halloween conducting roadside safety checks, roving patrols, and additional officers will be assigned to Main St . Remember to buckle up and don't drive distracted."

Tips for Parents:
∙ Map out a planned route ahead of time
∙ Ensure your child’s costume is non-flammable
∙ Accompany younger children
∙ Check candy before children consume it
∙ Send children with flashlights and/or reflective tape
∙ Try not to use masks as it can obstruct your child’s view
∙ Consider attending a community or church event
∙ Take a cellular phone or two-way radio device with you
∙ Avoid taking shortcuts through an yards.

Tips for Children/Teenagers:
∙ Carry a flashlight
∙ Look both ways before crossing the street
∙ Never enter the house of a stranger
∙ Never eat candy before your parent/guardian inspects it
∙ Stay on sidewalks and do not walk in the street
∙ Stay on well-lit streets
∙ Stay with your group

Tips for Motorists:
∙ Use extra caution when entering or exiting a driveway
∙ Watch for children darting out from behind parked vehicles
∙ Watch for children walking in the roadway
∙ Drive slowly down residential streets
∙ Don’t drive distracted
∙ Never drink and drive!
Tips for homeowners:
∙ Keep pets away from children
∙ Use battery-operated lights instead of candles on your front porch
∙ Call 911 if you observe any suspicious activity
∙ Remove any obstacles from your front walkway for trick-or-treaters

Image by Wendy Ann Mitchell