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OSWEGO, NY – Halloween is a very exciting time of the year for children of all ages.
To help ensure a safe and happy Halloween, Oswego City Police Chief Michael Dehm Jr. wishes to share the following safety tips with you.
Dressing up is one of the highlights of Halloween night and there are some very simple things that we, as parents / adults, can do to make costumes safe.
1. Plan a costume that is bright or add reflective tape to costumes or goodie bags so they are more visible.
2. Consider using facial make-up instead of masks to prevent them from blocking your child’s sight.
3. Make sure the material that the costume is made of is flame resistant.
4. Costumes should be loose so warmer clothes can be warn underneath.
5. Be sure that the accessories with your child’s costume are safe and easy for them to handle as they walk through neighborhoods.
6. Make a flashlight a costume must…it’s a safe addition.
When we are ready to travel on the path to lots of treats…
1. Children should always be accompanied by an adult or responsible older teen.
2. Plan a trick or treat route so everyone knows where he or she are going (especially the younger children).
3. Have a start time and a return time.
4. Explain 911 and make a safety plan if you get separated.
5. Only go to lighted porches and never enter a stranger’s house.
6. Walk on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If a sidewalk is not available walk to the left side of the road facing traffic.
7. Only cross at crosswalks and never cross between cars. Drivers won’t see you coming.
8. Never assume that motorists see you walking in the road or crossing streets. Be very aware of them as they drive toward you.
Citizens who are operating motor vehicles during the trick-or-treating hours should be cautious of children who may act unpredictably because they are excited or distracted.
According to Dehm, “There have been many traffic changes this year due to the State Route 104 Bridge Project, and while a driver’s attention may be focusing on particular traffic regulation, they may pay less attention to the potential dangers associated with the trick-or-treating children. Our goal is to alert citizens so that special attention can be given.â€ÂÂ
When trick-or-treaters arrive home with their goodies, please take time to check each treat to make certain that they are safe.
Discard any unwrapped, suspicious or apparently spoiled items.
If you experience or witness any suspicious activity please notify us immediately.
We at the Oswego Police Department wish you and your children a safe and candy filled Halloween.
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