Halloween candy
/ File photo
As you prepare to send your children out trick-or-treating tonight, there are several safety tips to keep in mind. Local police agencies will be out and about to make sure your kids are safe.
Police suggest children wear glow sticks and light up reflectors. DeWitt police will be handing them out tonight. Parents can also stop by DeWitt police headquarters to pick them up. Police say it's also important to map out a trick-or-treat route for your kids.
Utica police say parents should carefully inspect candy when their children return home to check for any evidence of tampering. Don't let them eat any candy that's out of its original packaging.
When buying a costume, check to make sure masks, beards and wigs are flame resistant. Make sure costumes are light and bright enough for drivers to see you.
Young children should always be accompanied by an adult or older, responsible child. Kids should walk from house to house on the sidewalk instead of the street. They should also only go into homes where the lights are on and you know the homeowners. They should never enter homes or apartments unless they're accompanied by an adult.
To prepare for trick-or-treaters, homeowners should remove any obstacles from lawns, steps and porches so kids don't trip. Candlelit jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes could catch fire.
Oswego County Sheriff Reuel Todd also has a few safety tips for parents. He says face paint is a better option than a mask. If your child does wear a mask, make sure it has adequate holes so they can see and breath properly.
Older children should travel in pairs or groups at all times. They should never venture down a dark, empty side street. Parents should know the route their children are following.
Onondaga County Neighborhood Watch suggests parents check sex offender maps to ensure their children don't trick or treat at the 'wrong' homes.
You can find a map by clicking here. Just enter your zip code to bring up the map.
