Fairfield Police Department Shares Tips for Halloween and Trick-or-Treating Safely

FAIRFIELD —  Chief Robert Kalamaras and the Fairfield Police Department would like to share guidance and safety tips as Halloween approaches to help residents and trick-or-treaters celebrate safely this season.

Fairfield Police encourage families to make the most of Halloween with their children but ask that parents and guardians remain mindful of their child’s safety when choosing costumes, and trick-or-treating.

Costume Safety

Picking a great costume is an exciting part of Halloween preparation, and the Fairfield Police Department encourages parents/guardians to consider these tips while choosing a costume:

•  All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant.
• Any props should be soft, and no part of the costume should impair vision
  or movement.
• Wear sturdy shoes and temperature appropriate clothing under costume.
• If children will be allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags, or give them a flashlight or glow sticks to ensure they are visible to drivers.
• When buying Halloween makeup, make sure it is nontoxic and always test it on a small area of skin first.
• Remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation.

Trick-or-Treating Safety

According to the National Safety Council, children are more than twice as likely to be struck by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. To help prevent such a tragedy, parents and trick-or-treaters are urged to consider these tips before heading out:

• A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds.
• If older children or teenagers are going out alone, plan and review a route that you feel is safe and acceptable for them to follow. 
• Agree on a specific time older children and teenagers should return home.
• Teach your children never to enter a stranger’s home or car.
• Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.
• Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home.
• Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street. Always look both ways before crossing the street.

Driving Safety

The Fairfield Police Department would also like to offer safety tips for those who plan to be on the road during trick-or-treating hours:

• Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
• At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.
• Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.

The Fairfield Police Department wishes everyone a safe and happy Halloween season!

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