Halloween is on a Saturday this year which increases the possibility of more adult motorists and more trick-or-treaters participating in Halloween festivities and for a longer period of time at night. Trick-or-treaters and drivers should be particularly careful while walking and driving during trick-or-treating hours.
The Montgomery County Police Department offers the following important safety reminders:
Homes
- Welcome trick-or-treaters with porch and exterior lights on.
- Make sure that your yard is clear of items that might trip children such as hoses and flower pots.
- Keep pets indoors.
- Drive slowly, turn on headlights, and use extra caution through neighborhoods.
- Reduce distractions in your vehicle so that you can concentrate on the road.
- Drive sober. Plan ahead - choose a sober driver or call SoberRide.
- Trick-or-treat only in neighborhoods that are familiar to you and stop only at homes with outside lights on.
- An adult or older sibling should always accompany younger children.
- Carry a flashlight.
- Older children should discuss their trick-or-treating route with their guardians and set a time to return home, trick-or-treat in a group, and carry a cell phone.
- Trick-or-treaters should walk (not run), use sidewalks when available, cross the street at a corner or crosswalk, and watch for vehicles.
- An adult should inspect treats before they are eaten.
- Any suspicious activity should be reported to police. The police non-emergency number is 301-279-8000.
- Wear brightly-colored costumes or reflective clothing.
- Consider using face make-up instead of wearing a mask-masks can obstruct vision.
- Keep costumes short to avoid falling and tripping.
- Wear a flame-resistant costume.
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