Everyone wants to
have a safe and happy Halloween for themselves, their guests and their children. Using safety tips and common sense can help you make the most of your Halloween season.

The Plainsboro Twp. Police Dept. offers Halloween Safety Programs to associations, groups and schools.

SAFETY TIPS

Before

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective.
• Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping.
• Consider adding reflective tape to costumes, etc.
• Secure emergency identification within Halloween attire.
• Mask can limit eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup.
• Purchase only flame resistant costumes, etc.
• Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords.
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
• Do not use candles.
• Teach your children their home phone number and how to call 911.
• Review with your children the principle of “Stop-Drop-Roll”, should their clothes catch on fire.
• Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you.
• Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.
• Everyone should carry coins for non-emergency phone calls.
• Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.

During Trick-or-Treating

• A PARENT OR RESPONSIBLE ADULT SHOULD ALWAYS ACCOMPANY YOUNG CHILDREN.
• Use a flashlight.
• Stay in a group, walk slowly and be alert.
• Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods.
• Remain on well-lit streets and use the sidewalk.
• Never enter a stranger’s home or car for a treat.
• Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
• Walk across streets.
• Never consume unwrapped food items of open beverages that may be offered.
• No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an adult.
• Police should be notified immediately of any suspicious activity.

After

• At home sort and check treats.
• Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should examine all treats.
• Throw away any spoiled and unwrapped items.
• Report all suspicious items to the police.