The Saratoga Springs Police Department issued safety tips on October 19 to ensure all residents have a safe Halloween this year. According to the department, trick-or-treating can be a fun activity for all ages if specific safety precautions are followed.
For costumes, officials recommend using face paint instead of masks to avoid blocking vision. To increase visibility, the department suggests wearing light-colored costumes or using reflective tape, stickers, or glow sticks, as well as using a light-colored candy bag. Additionally, residents should wear well-fitting shoes and ensure costumes are not too long to prevent tripping hazards.
Drivers are urged to slow down and watch for children, especially during the popular trick-or-treating hours of 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The department advises against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and requests that drivers put mobile devices away, pulling over to check messages safely. When transporting children for trick-or-treating, drivers should ensure everyone is appropriately buckled in a car seat, booster, or seat belt and re-check security before moving to the next stop.
Walking safety guidelines include having an adult accompany trick-or-treaters under age 12 and staying in familiar, well-lit areas. Children should not enter any house without an adult, and pedestrians should use crosswalks at intersections whenever possible.
Regarding treats, parents are advised to inspect all candy before children eat it and to discard any treats that appear opened or tampered with. If anything suspicious is observed during celebrations, the public is asked to call 801-794-3970.
