Sheriff’s Office Offers Halloween Safety Tips Oneida County…

Sheriff’s Office Offers Halloween Safety Tips

Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol and the members of the Sheriff’s Office are offering some tips to keep our children safe this Halloween.

Costumes

* Use reflective tape, stickers, or glow sticks on your costume or treat bags.

* Make sure your costume and shoes fit well to avoid trips and falls.

* If you are wearing a mask, be sure it does not impact your vision or breathing.

* Use soft and flexible costume accessories, not sharp and pointy ones.

Trick – or – Treating

* Go with a group and bring a trusted adult.

* Carry a flashlight.

* Walk, don’t run.

* Before crossing the street, look all ways and listen for traffic.

* ALWAYS use sidewalks, if not available, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.

* Use caution when crossing driveways.

* Put electronic devices down, keep heads up, and walk, don’t run, across the street.

* Obey traffic signals.

* Inspect treats for signs of tampering, such as an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes, or tears in wrappers. Throw away anything that looks suspicious.

* If there are no lights on, do not stop at the house.

For Homeowners

* Put away anything trick-or-treaters could trip over.

* Turn the lights on to ensure good visibility at the walkway and front door.

* Control your pets.

For Drivers

*Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited about Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.

*Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians, and on curbs.

*Enter and exit driveways and roadways slowly and carefully.

*Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Be especially alert for kids during those hours.