MUSCATINE, Iowa – Once again our community will witness the presence of zombies, ghosts, and goblins; or, possibly, princesses, superheroes, and other popular or unique costumes with Halloween approaching. While we enjoy giving and receiving “Tricks or Treats,” the Muscatine Police Department wants to make sure everyone stays safe.
The Muscatine Police Department is joining with departments across the nation to provide Halloween safety tips for children and parents. The official “Trick or Treat” night is Thursday, October 31, with the official “Trick or Treat” hours from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
“We will have extra officers out handing out glow necklaces,” Brett Talkington, Muscatine Police Chief, said. “They will be in the community in a police vehicle with their lights on.”
The Police Department will also be participating in several events this weekend. Officers will be stationed in a booth at the YMCA trick or treat event Friday (Oct. 25) with candy and games for the children. Muscatine Police will also participate in the Trunk or Treat event at the HyVee parking lot on 2nd Avenue from 1-3 p.m. Saturday (Oct. 26) and at the Trunk or Treat event in the Sycamore parking lot from 4-6 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 27).
The Muscatine Police Department, in promoting a fun and safe Halloween, is also offering the following tips to the children as well as the adults and those out and about during those hours:
COSTUMES:
• When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.
• If wearing dark clothing, use reflective tape and/or carry a flashlight. If possible choose light colors and decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers.
• Make sure footwear fits properly.
• Avoid masks that unreasonably reduce or obstruct vision. Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks.
• Be careful of open flames or other heat sources from decorations, since many costumes can catch fire
• Remember that many pets can get scared or may not recognize children in their costumes
TREATS:
• Check it before you eat it. Wait until you get home and have parents or guardians inspect your treats
• Throw away unpackaged items or candy that the wrapper has been opened
• If something is suspiciously wrong with the treats, report it to the police
STAY SAFE RULES:
• Respect your neighborhood and the community. Use walkways and respect others’ property.
• Be polite.
• Travel in groups of at least 3-4, if not accompanied by an adult
• Visit homes in your neighborhood or those that are familiar
• As you begin, point out a location that you can meet if for some reason you get separated
• Do not go to homes that do not have their porch lights on
• Use sidewalks when available. If unavailable, walk on the side of the street
• Look both ways before crossing the street
• Do not cross the street from between parked cars
• Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, do not run, across the street.
• Do not start before 5:30 p.m., and do not continue after 7:30 p.m.
DO NOT ENTER ANY HOME
The Muscatine Police Department also asks that residences that want to participate in the festivities to turn on porch lights. This will tell trick or treaters that it is OK to approach, as well as providing a safe walk to your door that is well lit. When you greet the children at the door, do not ask them to come in. If your children are out without you, make sure you know who they are with, where they are going, and who is supervising them.
If you are driving, whether it is regular business or dropping off children, PLEASE drive slowly and look out for children in the roadway. Many people are still coming work. Stay alert! We want everyone to enjoy Halloween, but we also want everyone to come home safe.
Halloween Safety Tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics
Halloween Safety Tips from the National Safety Council
HAVE A HAPPY & SAFE HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!