Halloween Safety & Trick-or-Treat
The City of Warren Police Department wishes everyone a safe and fun-filled Halloween. We encourage residents and visitors who participate in Trick-or-Treat activities throughout the City to pay close attention to these safety tips:
- Plan costumes that are bright and reflective or consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.
- Provide flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
- Think twice before using simulated knives, guns, or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
- Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
- Teach children their home phone number and how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remember that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.
- Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.
- A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
TRICK OR TREAT SAFETY TIPS:
- By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.
- Never enter a stranger’s home or car for a treat.
- Stay in a group, walk slowly, and communicate where you are going.
- Only trick-or-treat in well-known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.
- Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
- If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.
- Never cut across yards or use alleys.
- Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
- Always walk – NEVER run across a street.
- Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).
- Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway, or alley.
- Don’t assume the right-of-way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, it doesn’t mean that others will.
- Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.
- Treats should not be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an adult at home.
- Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped, or suspicious items.
- Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
Per action of City Council (October 18, 2010), Halloween Trick-or-Treat Hours will be on October 31 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM unless this date falls on Sunday. In such years, Trick-or-Treat hours shall be set for 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Saturday, October 30.