Safety Tips To Keep Mendham Kids Safe This Halloween

MENDHAM, NJ — The candy bowls are stocked, and the kids, as well as many adults, are looking forward to the annual ritual of dressing up in costume and going in search of some tasty treats.

Local police have provided some simple safety tips to keep in mind in order to avoid Halloween mishaps that will undoubtedly ruin the festivities.

Here are the tips to follow below:

DRIVING SAFELY

If you're driving on Halloween night, be extra cautious, especially in residential areas. There will be a lot of kids out, and they won't be paying attention to you or your car.

• Slow down and always be aware of your surroundings.
• Take extra time at intersections to be sure there are no children looking to cross the street.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
• Don’t drive distracted or intoxicated.

WALKING SAFELY

The exciting prospect of a candy bag can often lead to children not paying attention when crossing streets. Remind them of the following helpful tips:

• Never run out into the street or cross between parked cars.
• Cross at street corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks when available.
• Don’t walk distracted. Put down electronic devices.
• Look both ways before crossing the street.
• Always walk on sidewalks, when available. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.

One of the most important tips for children and adults going out on Halloween is to be seen. If your costume is dark, consider adding reflective tape or carrying a flashlight.