Halloween is a cherished tradition but the excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful.  Parents need to take a moment to remind their children how special they are and how important it is for them to review and remember their safety plans and rules as they enjoy their evening of fun.
A parent, older sibling or trusted adult should accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds. If older children are going alone, have at least two buddies go along. Plan and review the route and make sure your family knows what it is. Agree on a time when you should return home.  Stay with your group and communicate where you will be going to each other. Carry a cell phone for quick communication and remember your number. Call 9-1-1 if you have an emergency, become lost or afraid.
Everyone should carry a flashlight with fresh batteries. Consider adding reflective tape, glow sticks or striping to flashlights, costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
Don’t run; walk, slither and creep on well-lit streets and use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk to the far left edge of the roadway facing traffic.
Remember rules for vehicle safety.
•  Stop at all corners, look left-right-and left again before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks, and low-flying bats.
• Cross streets as a group and only at corners or established crosswalks.
•  Don’t hide or cross the street in between parked cars.
• Do not cut through back alleys, fields or across yards or driveways.
• Stay on sidewalks and in well-lighted areas.
• Only trick-or-treat in known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.
• Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger’s house.
• Run away from people who try to entice you with special treats. Scream, holler, and make a scene.
• Stay away from and don’t pet animals you don’t know. Pets can get spooked on Halloween, too.
•  Halloween decorations often are lit by candles. Keep away from open fires and candles.
• Have your parent or a trusted adult inspect your treats before eating. Don’t eat anything if the package appears to have been tampered with, opened or is not wrapped.
• Children should report any suspicious incidents to their parents or guardians or to law enforcement.
Drivers, please beware of the adults and children walking about. They will be crossing streets, walking in areas where there are no sidewalks and possibly wearing darker clothing.
Maintain proper speeds or even slower. The walkers may not be watching for vehicles. Watch for other vehicles that may be loading or unloading the little ghosts and goblins. Use caution when passing these vehicles.
Email questions to Trooperrob53@yahoo.com.