Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters

Halloween is just a few days away—plenty of time to review these safety tips from the Montgomery County Police Department for trick-or-treating on Halloween night.

Homeowners:

• Welcome trick-or-treaters with porch and exterior lights on.
• Make sure your yard is clear of items, such as hoses and flower pots, that might trip children. 

Motorists:

• Drive slowly, and use extra caution when driving through residential neighborhoods.

Trick-or-Treaters:

• Trick-or-treat only in neighborhoods that are familiar to you, and stop only at homes with outside lights on.
• An adult or older sibling should always accompany younger children.
• Carry a flashlight.
• Older children should trick-or-treat in a group, set a time to return home, carry a cell phone and discuss their trick-or-treating route with their parents or guardians.
• Trick-or-treaters should walk (not run), use sidewalks when available, cross the street at a corner or crosswalk and watch for vehicles.

When choosing costumes:

• Wear brightly-colored costumes or reflective clothing.
• Consider using face make-up instead of wearing a mask—masks can obstruct vision.
• Keep costumes short to avoid falling and tripping.
• Wear a flame-retardant costume.