Sheriff Duhon advises, “Take precautions for a safe Halloween”
Although fall officially begins in mid-September, many people don’t begin to appreciate the changing colors and cooler weather until the “unofficial” beginning of the season on Halloween night. Halloween’s popularity seems to be ever-increasing as more adults and children venture outside for fun-filled festivities. In fact, according to a 2008 National Retail Federation survey, more consumers plan to celebrate the holiday this year than last year. Sheriff Duhon warns that “Sadly, Halloween’s heightened popularity can sometimes mean a greater possibility for a variety of dangers and mishaps”.
“Many times when parents think of Halloween safety, the first thing they do is remind their kids not to eat unwrapped treats. And that’s good, but there’s so much more to Halloween safety, Sheriff Duhon said.
Unfortunately all too often, a small number of people focus on the “trick” part of Halloween instead of the “treats.” Halloween is THE night for pranks! Toilet papering houses and other forms of vandalism often fall into that category. The Sheriff says to let your children know that you want them to enjoy themselves, but that some tricks have the potential to hurt others or vandalize property. Tell your children that you not only disapprove of vandalism, but that it is against the law.
Another unfortunate reality is that child predators do exist right within our own neighborhoods. Because children are going from door to door during Halloween, Sheriff Duhon says, “Parents should be vigilant and take time to plan and review with your children the route which is acceptable to you.”
Sheriff Duhon encourages parents and children to “Know Before You Go.” Sheriff Duhon advises parents to go to http://www.lsp.org/socpr/default.html to search for offenders in your area using the statewide database. Simply enter your home address to view a printable map of your neighborhood and any offenders in the surrounding area.
While you are on the Web site, Sheriff Duhon encourages you to take one extra step and register for e-mail alerts. You can enter your home, school, or day care addresses to receive e-mail notifications any time an offender moves within one mile of any address you register.
In whatever way you and your children choose to celebrate Halloween, there are ways in which some common sense precautions can ensure safety and reduce the possibility of becoming a victim of crime or an unfortunate accident.
Although it is not possible to anticipate all possibilities, risks and dangers, Sheriff Duhon offers some straightforward tips for parents and children to help create a happy Halloween experience before, during and after the ghosts and goblins have faded into the night.
Before Halloween
* Plan and review with your children the route which is acceptable to you. Be sure to remind them if any homes are unsafe and should not be visited.
* Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.
* Plan costumes and accessories that are bright, reflective, fit well and are flame resistant.
* For greater visibility, add reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-treat bags.
* Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or an a bracelet.
* Consider non-toxic makeup as an alternative to masks that can block eyesight.
* Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If they are used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
* Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or glow sticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.
* This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.
* Review with children the principle of “Stop-Drop-Roll” should their clothes catch fire.
* Clear pathways on your porch and walkway to avoid trips and falls.
* Consider safe party guidelines when hosting an adult or office party.
During Trick-or-Treating
* A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children.
Remind Trick-or-Treaters
* By using a flashlight, one can see and be seen by others.
* Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
* Only go to homes with 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.
* Never enter a stranger’s home or car for a treat.
* Obey all traffic and pedestrian rules.
* Always walk across a street. Never run.
* Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks.
* Remove any mask that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.
* Do not assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters.
* Never consume food items or drinks that may be offered.
* No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an adult at home.
* Lw enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
After Trick-or-Treating
* Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. A responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
* Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.
* Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies) are given only to those of an appropriate age.
Concluded Sheriff Duhon, “Remember, a few simple safety precautions can mean all the difference between a fun and memorable celebration, or one spoiled by an avoidable incident. Keep safe and have a great Halloween.”
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