The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office reminds parents and children:
Walk Safely
Head up, electronic device down while out on the streets. You can post all of your costume and candy pics later
Teach your kid to make eye contact with the driver prior to crossing the street
Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Make sure to let them know that they should never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars
If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, tell them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups
Only approach homes that are well lit
Make sure they know how to say “No” to strangers. Never get into a stranger’s car or go into their house. Make sure you’re within sight of your child when they are running from house to house
Always have them accept treats outside on the porch
Costume Safety
Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible choose light colors
Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision
Have kids carry a flashlight or something that glows in the dark to help them see and be seen by drivers
When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls
Drive Safe on Halloween Night
Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways
Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs
Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully
Head up, phone down. Get rid of any distractions so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings
Turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances
Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Be especially alert for kids during those hours, but know that some may be out a little earlier or stay out a little later
