Also reminds motorists to slow down and be alert
Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield reminds residents that trick-or-treating can be a fun tradition for many, but before going door to door collecting candy, here is some advice for the trick-or-treaters, their parents, and those on the road:
Some recommendations for trick-or-treaters are:
· Plan in advance your route, and communicate any changes to your parents.
· Always stay in a group and communicate where you will be going.
· Obey curfew laws.
· Only go to homes/neighborhoods with which you are familiar.
· Only go to homes with a porch light on.
· Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
· Never cut across yards or use alleys.
· Never go into a home.
· Don’t tell anyone your full name or address.
· Never accept rides from strangers.
· Don’t approach unfamiliar pets and animals.
· Carry a flashlight and, if available a watch and cell phone.
· Wear comfortable, practical shoes.
· Don’t assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn’t mean others will.
· No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an adult at home.
· Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
“It’s never a good idea for trick-or-treaters to dart out from the side streets due to the possibility of getting struck by a vehicle,” added Sheriff Stanfield. “It is also very important for all motorists to slow down and be extra cautious when driving through neighborhoods.”
Some additional safety tips include:
· A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children.
· Examine all candy before allowing children to eat it.
· Trick-or-treaters should wear brightly colored costumes made of flame resistant materials.
· Clear pathways on your porch and walkway to avoid trips and falls.
· Remove Jack-O-Lanterns with lit candles inside them from doorsteps. Candles can be easily knocked over by children and pets.
· Liquid from a broken glow stick is usually non-toxic, IF ingested, call poison experts.
· Always wash hands/hand sanitizer after trick-or-treating, petting animals or picking pumpkins and apples.
· Try non-toxic face paint/make-up as an alternative to wearing a mask to ensure children can see properly.
· For those with allergies, beware of peanuts or peanut oil in candies.
· Treats such as chocolate can be poisonous to dogs or cats.
· Make sure any items that can cause choking (such as hard candy) are given to children of an appropriate age to avoid choking.
Sheriff Stanfield advised that if candy appears to have been tampered with, local police should be contacted. Parents can visit www.CandyUSA.com for information regarding possible tampering with candy or similar products.
“A few simple safety precautions can mean all the difference between a fun and memorable celebration, or one spoiled by an avoidable incident. Keep safe and have a great Halloween,” concluded Sheriff Stanfield.
