WEST MICHIGAN. — Sidewalks and streets will soon be filled with ghosts, goblins and perhaps a few Jr. Deputies as well! Halloween brings out the kid in all of us and the Sheriff Department wants to make sure everyone has a happy and safe holiday.
Before you head out on Halloween night, here are a few safety tips:
• Choose bright, flame-retardant costumes or add reflective take to costumes and candy bags so
children are easily seen in the dark. In addition, trick-or-treaters should carry a glow stick or
flashlight.
• Keep flammable items, such as your jack-o-lantern, away from small children, pets and
flammable materials such as draperies, furniture and paper decorations. Never leave a candle
burning unattended.
• Watch costumed children around pets. The pet may not recognize the child and become
frightened, especially if the child is using a prop such as a sword or dagger.
• Avoid hard plastic or wooden props, opting instead for items made of foam rubber, which is soft
and flexible.
• Plan a trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets. Avoid unfamiliar
neighborhoods, streets that are isolated or homes that are poorly lit inside or outside.
• Never send young children out alone. They should always be accompanied by a parent or
another trusted adult. Older children should always travel in groups.
• Always walk younger children to the door to receive treats and don’t let children enter a home
unless you are with them.
• Be sure children do not approach any vehicle, occupied or not, unless you are with them.
• Watch for traffic and avoid walking in the street whenever possible.
• Know the route your children are following. Children should always walk together to the front door of each house and only cross the street at crosswalks.
• Make sure your children know your phone number(s) and address in case you get separated.
• Teach your children to say “NO!” and “this is NOT my mother/father” in a loud voice if someone
tries to get them to go somewhere, accept anything other than a treat, or leave with them. Also
teach them to make every effort to get away by kicking, screaming and resisting.
• Remind your children not to eat any candy until you get home and can inspect it.
• Remember to drive slowly and carefully on Halloween, especially through neighborhoods. Some
children may be wearing costumes which make them difficult to see.
The Sheriff Department wishes you a safe and happy Halloween!
