Exeter Police Department Offers Halloween Safety Tips

With Halloween right around the corner, Chief Richard Kane and the Exeter Police Department would like to advise residents to be safe during fall festivities, especially for those who plan on trick-or-treating or who will be out at night.

Halloween, which is celebrated on Oct. 31, falls on a Saturday this year, according to a press release.

“Halloween is a fun time of the year, especially for the kids to get dressed up and trick-or-treat,” Kane said. “While we want everyone to enjoy the evening, we encourage residents to follow the safety tips provided to ensure everyone can safely enjoy their night.”

Starting today, the Exeter Police department is giving out reflective Halloween bags, bracelets, and a safety activity book at the front desk inside the police station for free as long as they are available.

The Centers for Disease Control provides best practices for Halloween trick-or-treaters by asking that people follow the “Safe Halloween” motto.

Swords, knives and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.

Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

Fasten reflective tape on costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before you eat them.

Hold a flashlight while walking to ensure that you are visible. Walk and don’t run from house to house.

Always test make up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

Lower your risk of serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.

Only walk on sidewalks wherever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe and to prevent accidents or injury.

Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.

Eat only factory-wrapped candy. Avoid eating homemade treats offered by strangers.

Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Don’t accept rides from strangers.

Never walk near lit candles or devices with open flames. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Those who are planning on attending a party in or out of town should remember:

• Many young children are out for the evening, especially during the peak hours of 5:30 to 7 p.m., so drive slowly!
• Not to drive a vehicle while wearing any sort of mask. Your visibility could be obscured.
• Have a designated driver if attending an adult Halloween party where alcohol is served.

If there are any concerns on safety please contact the Exeter Police Department at 603-772-1212.