SAPD Reminds Safety is the Most Important Part of Halloween

SAN ANGELO, TX -- The San Angelo Police Department has put out a notice reminding citizens the importance of safety this Halloween. 

According to the SAPD, there are many important factors with being safe this Halloween. Here are some things to remember: 

Keep Costumes Both Creative and Safe:

• Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors. Since masks can sometimes obstruct a child’s vision, try non-toxic face paint and makeup whenever possible.
• Have kids use glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers. And remember - put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
• Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, remind them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.

Double Check Candy and Costumes:

• Check treats for signs of tampering before children are allowed to eat them. Candy should be thrown away if the wrapper is faded or torn, or if the candy is unwrapped.
• While glow sticks are good for visibility, remember that the liquid in glow sticks is also hazardous, so parents should remind children not to chew on or break them.

Walk Safely:

• Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
• Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross.
• Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.
• Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between
• parked cars.

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween:

• Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
• Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
• Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
• Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.