Town of Niagara Police Chief Guiliani shares Halloween safety message

Guest Editorial by Craig Guiliani 

Chief of Police

Town of Niagara Police Department

It's that time of year that our kids love. The holidays. The first one being Halloween next week. It's always a good time to remind all of you about traffic and costume safety, which can help make it safe for all the trick-or-treaters and the driving public.

Here are some tips for the young kids, older kids and the parents!

•Be sure to choose a costume that won't cause safety problems. Everything should be fire-resistant and comfortable. 

•It gets dark early! Use reflective tape on the candy bags and glow sticks to carry. 

•A responsible adult should always accompany young children through the neighborhoods.

•Most homeowners will have a porch light on if participating. Stay away from unlit homes.

•Older children should let the parents know the routes they plan on taking.

•Agree on specific time the children will return home.

•Remind the children to never to enter a home or car.

•Children should only travel in well-lit areas.

•Children should travel together in groups and stick together.

•Children should not eat any candy until they return home.

•Throw out any open wrapped candy and always make sure there are no food allergies.

Some safety reminders for anyone who plans on driving on Halloween night:

•Watch for children walking in the roadways, medians, and crossing sidewalk to sidewalk.

•Enter and exit your driveway very carefully. Double- and triple-check in all directions.

•Watch for children in dark clothing, especially later in the evening.

•Young drivers should refrain from driving on Halloween night because of lack of experience.

And for homeowners:

•Leave the porch light and any outside light on so kids know you’re participating.

•Make sure there are no tripping hazards leading up to your door.

•Keep pets secure and away from where children approach.

•Use only store-bought treats. Most homemade products will likely be thrown out.

Our agency will have plenty of officers out on patrol making sure your children are safe and secure. Make sure to say, “Hi” – and I'm sure they'll be passing out treats also!

Town of Niagara Halloween trick-or-treat hours are 4-7 p.m.!

Have a great and safe Halloween!

Chief Craig Guiliani