Press Release

“Halloween is a fun and memorable time for children and adults alike. Protecting your children and yourselves while out trick-or-treating, remember to follow a few simple precautions,” said Sheriff Lee Baca. If at all possible, encourage your children to trick-or-treat while it is still daylight. As this is not always an option and your children choose to venture out into the “ghoulish” night time, keep your children visible by dressing them in light-colored costumes and apply reflective tape whenever possible to increase their visibility to motorists.

As our children participate in the holiday’s festivities, it is our responsibility as parents to ensure their safety. Your children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult who has a flashlight and, a cell phone in case of an emergency. Flashlights with brightly-colored and decorated globes can serve as a warning to motorists that children are present. Plan a route that uses well-lighted streets with little traffic and follow all traffic and safety rules. Remind children to cross the street only at corners with a cross-walk or traffic-controlled intersections, look in both directions prior to crossing, and never dart out into the street from behind parked cars.

No matter where your children trick-or-treat, the “goodies” collected need to be checked by an adult before consumption. Check all treats at home in a well-lighted area, paying special attention to any item that appears to be tampered with or unwrapped. Homemade items should only be eaten if obtained from trusted neighbors and friends; all others should be discarded.

“Let us make Halloween a safe and fun holiday,” said Sheriff Baca. “The memories for you and your children are priceless and will last a lifetime.”

SHB-117A-03

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October 29, 2003