The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office offers a few tips that will make Halloween a real treat for the entire family. Citizens are urged to be especially alert and make safety a priority.
Make sure that an adult or an older responsible youth will be supervising the outing for children under age 12.
Travel only in familiar areas and along an established route.
Stop only at houses or apartment buildings that are well lit and never enter a stranger's home.
Establish a return time.
Pin a slip of paper with the child's name, address and phone number inside a pocket in case the child gets separated from the group.
Costumes should be loose so warm clothes can be worn underneath.
Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard.
Costumes should be made with light colored materials. Strips of retro-reflective tape should be used to make children visible.
Masks can obstruct a child's vision. Consider using facial makeup instead.
If masks are worn, they should have nose and mouth openings and large eyeholes.
Knives, swords and other accessories should be made from cardboard or flexible materials. Do not allow children to carry sharp objects.
Carrying flashlights will help children see better and be seen more clearly.
Walk - do not run - from house to house. Do not cross yards and lawns where unseen objects or the uneven terrain can present tripping hazards.
Walk on sidewalks, not in the street.
Insist that treats be brought home for inspection before anything is eaten.
When in doubt, throw it out.
Motorists should watch for children darting out between parked cars and walking on roadways, medians and curbs. Motorists should also be sure to enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
Have a safe and spooktacular Halloween!