The Shreveport Police Department wants everyone to have a safe, fun Halloween, and residents can take special precautions to make sure they do.
Especially important this year is for residents to check ALL candy before letting their children eat it. Eat only candy that is fully wrapped in the original wrapping. Avoid any items with suspicious wrappings or suspicious substances.
Parents should consider attending a church or school function to celebrate Halloween. It is strongly recommended that all trick-or-treaters be home by 8:00, since it is a school night. They could also attend the city’s Halloween candy give-away on Friday, Oct. 29, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Expo Hall.
* Residents expecting trick-or-treaters are urged to keep on exterior lights during Halloween night. Remove objects from the yard that might pose a hazard.
* Have neighborhood watch groups patrol the communities on Halloween night and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
* Drive slowly and watch for excited trick-or-treaters crossing the street.
* Make sure costumes are flame-retardant and allow the children to move easily without tripping. Make sure they have flashlights, reflective tape or light-colored clothing so they can be seen at night.
* Consider make-up instead of masks, so children can see well and be comfortable.
* Ensure that accessories with costumes are made of soft, flexible materials.
* Have adults accompany young children. Have older children travel in groups.
* Set out a time limit for trick-or-treating. Know the routes the children will take. Do not allow them to take short cuts through backyards, alleys or fields.
* Remind kids not to enter strange houses or cars.
* Do not allow kids to eat their treats until they get home. Serve them a meal before they go out to prevent munching.
* Consider organizing a party with games, treats, music, scary stories or haunted houses, so children can have fun in a safe, controlled environment.
