Shelton police offer Halloween safety tips
Officials stress careful driving, maintaining visibility
SHELTON — Halloween is right around the corner, and police are offering tips for children and adults to stay safe while gathering goodies on Oct. 31.
Police Chief Shawn Sequeira is urging people to be careful while driving on Halloween, keep their homes lit and advise children to remain visible while walking the roadways.
Sequeira said those walking should wear costumes that do not hinder visibility. They also should carry glow sticks or flashlights and use crosswalks when walking across streets.
“Know the homes you are going to, be familiar with the neighborhoods you are in, and if you are in a situation that does not feel right, call the police,” Sequeira said.
According to the Connecticut State Police, people should: Wear bright and reflective costumes to be visible to drivers; add reflective tape to trick-or-treat bags to increase visibility; carry a flashlight while walking; be alert when visiting homes and watch for objects or toys on walkways or on porches; never enter a house or car for a treat; always trick-or-treat in a group that includes an adult; do not eat any treats until an adult has inspected them; only trick-or-treat from people you know; watch for cars while walking from house to house; do not wear a mask that hinders vision.
Before Halloween night, police remind residents to clear walkways of any obstacles that could hamper visits from costumed youngsters. Parents should inspect all treats collected by their children and dispose of any items that appear to be unsafe for consumption, such as unwrapped, partially opened, discolored or out-of-the-ordinary treats.
In addition, parents are urged to check the Connecticut Sex Offender Registry at www.ct.gov/despp prior to Halloween night so they can map out their trick-or-treating routes.
Troopers also remind all drivers to be aware of pedestrians on Halloween night. Drive cautiously and obey all traffic laws on Halloween and every day, and be aware of children who may be running from house to house.