With Halloween a few days away, Granville County Sheriff Brindell B. Wilkins, Jr. offers some safety tips for children, parents and motorists. He suggests that parents prepare and go over Halloween safety plans with their children.
“Go over simple information such as their phone number and home address in case of an emergency,” he said, “plus, make sure they know what to do if a stranger approaches them.”
Additional safety on Halloween include:
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.
· Tell your children to never 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.
CHILDREN:
· Carry a flashlight and always keep a safe distance from moving cars.
· Look in all directions before crossing; obey all traffic signals; walk and never run.
· Wear a glow-stick necklace and glow-stick bracelets – these have saved lives.
· Do not take shortcuts through back yards, alleys or parks.
· Don’t go inside anyone’s home. Only go to homes with porch lights on.
· Don’t accept rides in cars with strangers.
· Don’t eat any treats until your parents have inspected them.
MOTORISTS:
· Use extreme caution.
· Consider driving at least five miles per hour under the speed limit in residential areas.
· Accept that you will be late to your destination and drive extra slow.
Following these safety tips will ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Halloween!