For Immediate Release

Monday, Oct. 31, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Concord Police Provide Halloween Safety Tips

CONCORD – As children head out to trick-or-treat tonight, Chief Joseph O’Connor and the Concord Police Department would like to remind families to follow several important guidelines to ensure they have a safe Halloween.

“On behalf of the entire Concord Police Department, we wish the community a happy Halloween,” Chief O’Connor said. “We ask that trick-or-treaters dress and act appropriately and that parents monitor their children’s activities closely so everyone can have an enjoyable night.”

Children should:

• Go only to well-lit homes and remain on porches rather than entering houses.
• Travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult.
• Know your phone number in case an emergency telephone call is necessary.
• Bring treats home before eating them so parents can inspect them.
• Use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid or sharp.
• Use flashlights to light your way and always walk on sidewalks.
• Cross streets at the corner and use crosswalks. Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street. Do not cross between parked cars.
• Wear clothing that is bright, reflective and flame retardant.
• Consider using face paint instead of masks. (Masks can obstruct your vision.)
• Avoid wearing hats that will slide over your eyes, and long, baggy or loose costumes, along with oversized shoes (to prevent tripping).
• Older children should remember that vandalism and intimidation are crimes. Halloween is a time for everyone to have fun.

Parents and guardians should:

• Supervise children under 12 years old.
• Establish a curfew for older children.
• Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns and sidewalks, and by placing jack-o-lanterns away from doorways and landings.
• Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats to young children.
• Inspect all candy for safety before children eat it.
• If driving children between houses and neighborhoods, have them get out of cars on the curbside, not on the traffic side.

Drivers should:

• Watch for children crossing the street and on medians.
• Drive slowly.
• Exit driveways and alleyways carefully.

Additionally, any suspicious person or vehicle should immediately be reported to the Concord Police Department by calling 978-318-3400.

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