Texas DPS Suggest Halloween Safety Tips

AUSTIN, Tx- A press release from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) would like to remind parents, drivers and children that even though Halloween is fun, there must still be safety.

The press release states, “Adults and kids can avoid a variety of potential dangers by adhering to basic safety practices and using extra caution in areas where trick-or-treaters will be celebrating.”

“As we head into the weekend before Halloween, we are calling on Texans to take security and safety seriously,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Drivers should be on the lookout for trick-or-treaters of all ages who might walk along our roads or suddenly cross the street. Also, if alcohol will be part of your celebration, always designate a sober driver or choose alternate transportation.”

Tips from DPS while driving during Halloween include:

• Don’t drink and drive. (Designate a sober driver or take a cab.)
• Eliminate distractions, including the usage of mobile devices.
• Slow down; and further reduce speeds in bad weather, construction areas and heavy traffic.

When planning a trick-or-treat route, parents can visit the Texas Public Sex Offender Registry. The registry also includes a mapping function. The map indicates offenders who may be living in the neighborhood chosen to trick-or-treat in. The map cane be found here. 

A mobile app with the map is also available on iPhones, iPads, and Androids phones and tablets. The app provides interactive and easy-to-use maps for searching registered sex offenders by location, name, route and proximity.

A demonstration of the app can be found below:

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If suspicious or criminal activity is in progress, individuals can report the activity via mobile app. At www.iwatchtx.org or by calling 1-844-643-2251.

The app is currently available for iPhone users on the Apple App Store (http://tinyurl.com/kj43lsr) and for Android users on Google Play (http://tinyurl.com/kda7ww8).

Texans can also stay safe by using these Halloween safety tips:

• Look both ways before crossing roadways, and always walk; don’t run.
• Cross the roadway at intersections and crosswalks.
• Travel in groups with adult supervision.
• Do not enter the cars or homes of strangers, and avoid homes without visible porch lights.
• Make sure children know their home phone number and how to call 911 or their local emergency number in case they have an emergency or become lost. 
• Take all treats home for an adult to inspect before eating anything, and never eat unwrapped candy.

Individuals should also follow these tips when selecting a costume:

• Avoid toy guns and knives – they could easily be mistaken for a real weapon.
• Wear costumes that are light in color or place reflective material on the costume, so drivers can see you.
• Avoid using masks, if possible, to allow for better visibility and peripheral vision.
• Carry a flashlight.