Safety tips for trick-or-treaters

Police urge precautions for Halloween night

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Police Department offers several tips for trick-or-treater safety on Halloween.

"The pedestrian safety tips are the most important for the children," Moses Lake Police Capt. Jim Jenkins said.

Always follow the rules regarding crossing the streets, he added. Cross streets at the corner or in the crosswalk. Jenkins urges trick-or-treaters to walk instead of run and to stick to sidewalks and driveways. An adult should always accompany young children. If an adult is not around, a route should be planned ahead of time so children can be kept track of, he said. Do not trick-or-treat alone, use the buddy system.

Trick-or-treaters should keep themselves visible by carrying a flashlight or by wearing bright clothing.

Be cautious of strangers and only approach lit houses, Jenkins noted. Do not enter a house to accept a treat; stay outside the doorway. An adult should always check candy treats to make sure they are safe to eat too, he added.

Costumes should be fire resistant. Do not play near lit jack-o'-lanterns, Jenkins said. Also, wear a watch and carry a cell phone if possible.

And if you are not sure what to do, use common sense, he noted.

There has never been an incident in the past triggering the precautions, he said. The department has put together safety tips for trick-or-treaters for more them 25 years.

Don't forget to say thank you for your treats, he added.