As we edge closer to Halloween on October 31, the Mercer Island Police Department wants to wish everyone a happy and safe Halloween this year.
No matter what age you are, here are a few easy tips from the MIPD to help keep you and your “Lil’ Trick or Treaters” safe:
- Don’t ever go into a stranger’s house. Always have a parent or responsible adult with you when going to a stranger’s door.
- Always look both ways before crossing a street. If you are going to be walking around dark streets and in neighborhoods at night, wear reflective tape somewhere on your costume so passing cars and bicycles can see you (especially if you are wearing a dark colored costume).
- Don’t trick or treat in neighborhoods alone. Make sure you are accompanied by a responsible parent or adult. For your safety, make sure someone in your group carries a flashlight, a cell phone, and know all of the people you are Trick or Treating with in case you get lost.
- Eat only factory wrapped candy. Don’t eat candy/food that is homemade unless you know, and trust, the person who gave it to you. If you choose to eat homemade food, ask and have your parents inspect the food before you eat it.
- Always tell someone/parents when and what areas you will be Trick or Treating in before you go out.
- Vandalism and animal cruelty are always wrong. Some people use this holiday to commit crimes against property and animals. Do not partake in any act that can hurt someone, an animal, or something that does not belong to you.
- Part of the fun of Halloween is going to the pumpkin patch, carving pumpkins, and making Jack-o-Lanterns. Always make sure that when using a sharp knife to carve a pumpkin, it is done by the hands of a responsible adult. Also, when placing a candle or any flammable item inside the pumpkin, keep it away from items that can catch fire.
- If you are having a Halloween party this year, be courteous and responsible. Be aware that the noise level may disturb your neighbors and may result in the police department visiting your house. After 10PM, the city of Mercer Island does have an enforceable noise ordinance that is in effect. Also, and more important … if you serve alcohol at your party, don’t let people drink and drive. Make sure everyone has a safe ride home.
Here are a few links for more safety tips and information on Halloween.
http://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween
http://www.halloween-safety.com/halloween_safety_kids.html
