safe time for youngsters

By BETH LAKEY

Staff Writer

Oct. 30, 2000 10 PM

All the ghouls and goblins will be out Tuesday night and local law enforcement officers want to ensure they all return safely home from trick-or-treating.

Troy Police Chief Anthony Everage and Pike County Sheriff Russell Thomas want to remind parents and children to follow some safety tips during Halloween.

As the Pokemon characters and the usual witches and ghosts travel through the streets, there are some rules all should follow.

· Costumes should be short enough to avoid tripping and secure hats so they don’t slip over little eyes.

· It’s always a good idea for an adult to accompany children on their trick-or-treat rounds and an even better idea if the route is planned out ahead. Parents might also want to attach the name, address and phone number to the clothes of children under the age of 12 just in case someone gets lost.

· While traipsing along, keep watch with a flashlight and walk, don’t run. Children should walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic, and stay in familiar neighborhoods and look both ways before crossing the street.

· Restrict trick-or-treating to homes with porch or outside lights illuminated.

· Don’t cut across yards or driveways.

· Never enter a home or apartment building or get into a car with a stranger or someone you don’t trust.

· Wear light-colored clothing or reflective tape so you can been seen easily and, instead of a mask, wear face makeup so you can see better.

· Costumes should be made of flame-resistant material.

· Bring those treats home and don’t eat anything until an adult has checked it. If treats look suspicious, call law enforcement authorities.

While trick-or-treaters have a lot to be aware of, so do drivers. Drivers should remember there will be little ones out and about and that driving slowly and keeping a watchful eye out for trick-or-treaters could prevent an accident.

By following these safety tips, Halloween can be a real treat for the whole family.