SAVANNAH – Halloween is right around the corner and the Savannah Police Department is gearing up for the holiday by offering safety tips, including recommended trick-or-treat times and information on two upcoming police-sponsored events: “Trunk-or-Treat” and “Blue Light Fright Night.”
SPD recommends trick-or-treating take place on Friday, Oct. 31 from 5-8 p.m. During that time officers will be visiting neighborhoods for the safety of trick-or-treaters. Officers will also be patrolling the heavily traveled neighborhoods and areas throughout the evening and weekend.
The Savannah Impact Program will host “Trunk-or-Treat” on Thursday, Oct. 30 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 2005 Waters Ave. Local businesses, food vendors, artisans and community organizations will be sharing their candy and services from their decorated trunks at this free public event.
SPD will host “Blue Light Fright Night” on Friday, Oct 31 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Central Precinct located at 1710 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. This event will include a “haunted house” walk-through and candy for attendees, with pre-filled bags for those in strollers and wheelchairs. CrimeStoppers, Old Savannah City Mission, and Bay Street Blues are partnering with SPD for the event.
To keep everyone safe, SPD advises trick-or-treaters of all ages, from children and parents to adult participants, to review the Halloween safety tips.
Safety tips for trick-or-treaters and parents:
- Trick-or-treat only during the suggested timeframe – 5-8 p.m. on Oct. 31
- Only visit familiar, well-lit neighborhoods and homes that have their porch lights on.
- Walk on the sidewalk and observe all traffic laws.
- Parents should inspect children’s candy before they eat any. If anything is unwrapped or looks suspicious, throw it away.
- Make sure trick-or-treaters have a flashlight and are wearing costumes that do not restrict their vision, could cause them to trip, are flame retardant and are light colored and visible. Consider placing reflective tape on costumes or treat bags.
- Don’t run! Walk.
- Never go into a home while trick-or-treating.
- Children should always trick-or-treat with an adult.
- Notify the police of any suspicious activity.
Safety Tips for Homeowners:
- Only hand out commercially wrapped candy.
- Only turn your porch light on if you welcome trick-or-treaters.
- Secure pets.
Safety Tips for Motorists:
- Drive slowly and be aware of children who could dart in and out of traffic or between parked cars.
- Avoid distractions, like using your cell phone or listening to loud music, which affect your ability to see or hear children.
- NEVER drink and drive.
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