From the Kern County Sheriff’s Office

Halloween is a fun tradition, but the excitement can cause children and adults to forget about being safe. The major dangers are not from witches or goblins, but from falls and vehicle-vs.-pedestrian collisions. Another major concern is what your children are given and how to identify candy that may have been altered.

Children should also know their phone number and address at home in case of an emergency. They should know how to respond if a stranger appraoches them. If your child is late returning, and can’t be located, call 911 for local law enforcement.

Parents:
Know the route your children will be taking if you aren’t going with them.
Make sure you set a time for them to be home.
Have your children eat a good dinner before going out.
Make sure your children are properly supervised while out.
Be sure they trick or treat in a group if you are not with them.
Children 12 years and younger should be with an adult.
Tell your children never to go into a stranger’s house.
Tell your children to stay out of the street while walking.
Choose a costume that is brightly colored and easy to see in the dark.
Carefully inspect all food and candy before letting your child eat it (when in doubt, throw it out).

Trick or Treaters:
Carry a flashlight.
Stay on sidewalks.
Cross the street at intersections; never run out from behind a parked car.
Stay in familiar neighborhoods.
Make sure your costume fits you well.
Only approach houses that are well-lit.
Walk from house to house; don’t run.
Never take shortcuts, such as alleyways or empty fields.
Don’t eat anything until your parents have had a chance to inspect it.

For more information, contact Kern County Sheriff’s Crime Prevention Specialist Ashley Glover at 661-391-7559 or glovera@kernsheriff.com

This is part of the November 1, 2013 online edition of The Mountain Enterprise.

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