Montgomery County
Sheriff's Office
Mount Ida, Arkansas
Badge/Patch
Mobile Version
10/13/2016

Halloween Safety Tips

SAFETY TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN

Halloween is approaching quickly and we expect large groups of children out and about that evening. Our primary concern on Halloween, and any other time, is the safety of children. With that in mind, the Montgomery Sheriff's Office would like to offer the following safety tips. It is a good idea to review these with your children before they begin their "trick-or-treat" adventure.

1. Fake knives, swords, guns, and other costume accessories can potentially cause injury. Make sure they aren't too long for the costume and review with your child that they are part of the costume and noat a weapon. Make sure they are made out cardboard or other flexible materials.

2. Only purchase costumes and accessories that are marked flame-resistant.

3. Keep costumes short to prevent trips and falls.

4. Try using make up instead of a mask. Masks can obstruct a child's vision, which can be dangerous for when kids are crossing streets and going up and down steps.

5. Costumes with light colors and/or reflective tape are best. Someone in the group should carry a flashlight.

6. Children should always trick-or-treat in groups, rather than alone, preferably with adult supervision and carry a cell phone for quick communication.

7. Parents should select the safest route for children to take. Children should stay on sidewalks or on the shoulder of the roadway facing traffic.

8. Children should be instructed to stop only at familiar homes and where the outside lights are on. They should also be advised to NEVER go into a home or car to collect treats.

9. As an alternative of going door to door, parents should consider taking their children to community sponsored events such as those hosted by community centers, churches, schools, etc.

10. Children should not eat any treats until they get home and the parent or adults can examine them.

11. Children (and adults) should only consume unopened candies and treats in original wrappers. Treats with open packaging or torn wrappers should be discarded. Don't forget to inspect fruit and homemade treats for anything that looks suspicious.

Halloween can be a safe and enjoyable evening with a little preparation, communication and diligence. Of course, we will be on patrol and available to you and your children should you need us.

Thank you for your cooperation.