Children in Danville and around the area are getting ready for Halloween…and Danville Police want them to stay safe. Public Safety Director Larry Thomason says Wednesday, October 31st, is the official night set aside for trick or treating in Danville. Hours are from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m.
Thomason says anyone welcoming children to their homes that evening should have their porch lights on, and make sure there is nothing along your sidewalk the children might trip over.
Danville Police are also offering a number of other safety tips for Halloween including:
- Avoid loose clothing; you might trip on it.
- Make sure you wear safe, comfortable shoes that fit correctly.
- Avoid masks that reduce vision. Make up is safer.
- Avoid dark colored clothing that is hard to see. If your costume is dark place some reflective tape on it.
- Be careful around any open flames so your costume does not catch on fire.
- Avoid hard plastic or wooden props; substitute with foam rubber.
- Keep costumed children away from pets.
Tips regarding treats include:
- Never eat anything until you get home and your parents have had a chance to check treats.
- Do not eat unpackaged items or items that have a wrapper which is open. Throw those items away.
- If you find something is wrong with your treats call the police.
Some rules of the road for Halloween:
- Travel with 3 or 4 others in your age group,
- Visit only homes in your neighborhood.
- Do not go to homes that do not have their porch light on.
- DO NOT ENTER ANY HOME.
- If you are out after dark, carry a flashlight.
- Look both ways before crossing a street.
- Use sidewalks where they are available.
- Never cross a street from between parked cars.
- Respect the property of others….use sidewalks and do not bother displays.
Director Thomason says if you are greeting trick-or-treaters at your home you should greet children at the door. Do not ask them to come inside. If your children are going out with others – make sure you know who they are with, and who will be providing supervision.
Director Thomason adds children should be discouraged from going out before or after October 31st.