In the interest of a safe and happy Halloween for all, Sheriff Patrick Ray has some Trick-or-Treat  safety tips to share with children and parents.
The sheriff said that Halloween safety begins with the costume. “Costumes should be fireproof and have large enough eye holes  for good peripheral vision,” Ray shared.
He also said it is important that the costume has no loose ends around the legs that can make Trick-or-Treaters trip, and should be brightly colored or employ reflective tape to increase chances of being seen by motorists.
Accesories like knives or pitchforks should have smooth, flexible tips to avoid injuries.
Younger revelers should be accompanied by an adult. Older children should take a set route and have a set time to return home.
Ray said Trick-or-Treating should be done in well-lit areas, and that children should be instructed to stop only at familiar houses in their own neighborhoods.
“They should never go into a stranger’s house or get into a stranger’s vehicle,” he said.
“Everyone should carry a flashlight or glow stick, or have reflective tape on their costumes,” the sheriff continued. “They should walk on the left side of the street, facing traffic. Remember to walk and never run from house to house.”
Ray also reminds drivers to be on the look-out for children darting from between parked cars or walking on roadways and curbs, and to watch for children wearing dark clothing.
“We also encourage adults to examine the treats children bring in before they are eaten,” Ray recommended.
“If you are participating in Halloween and have visitors come to your residence, you should leave a porch light or flood light on so your visitors can see,” Ray continued. “You also need to remove leaves and other items such as garden hoses, lawn furniture and yard decorations so no one will trip or fall.”
The sheriff said that it is also a good idea to move pets away from the area to insure the safety of both visitors and pets.
Ray also stressed that parents should discuss the difference between tricks and vandalism before Trick-or-Treating commences. “I will have extra deputies on shift again this year to ensure the public’s safety,” Ray said. “We will be on the lookout for anyone vandalizing property. This will include egging and reckless burning of items.
Ray urged anyone experiencing Halloween trouble to call the central dispatch at 215-3000. “We want everyone to have a good time and be safe” Ray concluded.