Help Keep Your Kids Safe This Halloween

October 30, 2008 - With Halloween just a day away, the Houston Police Department wants to remind parents of some dos and don’ts of personal safety when you take your little goblins out trick-or-treating tomorrow (Oct 31).

The safest way to celebrate Halloween is to participate in an organized event coordinated by a local school or church. For those who still want to observe the holiday in the traditional manner, the HPD suggests following these tips:

 Children should wear light-colored costumes short enough to prevent tripping. Reflective tape can be added to enhance visibility.

 Your child should be able to see properly through a mask.

 Children should be accompanied by an adult at all times, should stay within their neighborhood, and only visit homes of people they know.

 Carry a flashlight after sunset.

 Examine all candy or treats at home before allowing your child to eat them. If any candy appears to be tampered with, throw it away.

 Keep your costumed children away from pets since the animals might panic and not recognize the child.

 Avoid hard plastic or wood props such as daggers or swords. Foam rubber is a good substitute.

Remember that we owe it to our children to help keep them safe.

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.

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