With Halloween falling on Saturday this year, trick or treaters need to take extra precautions because Saturday is one of the busiest nights of the week. With this in mind the Helena-West Helena Police Department would like to share some safety tips to help keep our little citizens safe says Police Chief Col. Fred Fielder
“The first thing that we think will make for a safe Halloween is to set a good time frame for trick or treaters,” said Fielder. “A safe time frame would be from around 6 to 8 p.m. This starts just before dark and ends before too late in the evening. This time frame is also good for those who are handing out treats because it will allow then to have a set time that their home is open for trick or treaters.”
The following are some safety tips for the little trick or treaters to remember:
•Walk on the sidewalk and not in the street.
•Look both ways before crossing the streets
•Cross streets only at corners.
•Don’t cross streets between parked cars.
•Plan your route, tell your parents. Have an adult go with you.
•Carry a flashlight to light your way.
•Visit homes that have the porch light on.
•Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger’s house.
•Be very cautious of animals and strangers.
•Keep away from open fires and burning candles.
•Do not eat candy if the package is already opened.
•Have an adult inspect treats before eating them.
•Respect your neighbor’s property. Don‘t cut across lawns.
or yards. Lawns and yards can have hazards (hoses, tools, lawn ornaments, clotheslines).
Always stay in familiar neighborhoods.
Things for parents to remember include:
Most injuries to children on Halloween are the results of falls, burns and motor vehicle accidents.
Face paint is safer than loose fitting masks, which can block vision. A mask, if used, should fit securely and have wide-enough eyeholes.
Costumes should be short enough to avoid tripping.
For fire safety, avoid flimsy, baggy or billowing garments.
Light-colored costumes are more visible at night. Strips of reflective tape will help.
Secure hats so they don‘t slip over children’s eyes.
Knives, swords and other props should be soft and flexible, in case of a fall.
Children should carry quarters or a cell phone so they can call home.
Set a reasonable time for children to return home.
Dial 911 in the event of any police, fire or medical emergency. The non-emergency number to call is 572-3441.
