Tips for a Safe Trick or Treat Night

AMES, Iowa - Keep an eye out for an assortment of ghosts, goblins, and other creatures running about in Ames on Halloween evening. The annual Trick-or-Treat night will be celebrated on Thursday, Oct. 31, with suggested hours from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For the safety of everyone participating, the Ames Police Department offers these tips & suggestions:

For Children:

• Travel with a parent/guardian or a responsible adult
• Travel only in familiar areas
• Inspect treats at home before eating them
• Use flashlights, glow sticks, or other reflective materials while walking after dark
• Remove masks and other vision obstructions prior to crossing roadways
• Ensure costume accessories, such as swords, are soft and flexible

For Drivers:

• Slow down in residential areas
• Obey all traffic signs and signals
• Pay extra attention at crosswalks and intersections
• Pick a safe location and turn on hazard lights when picking up/dropping off children
• Consider turning on vehicle headlights prior to dusk

For Everyone:

• Talk openly about safety and the expectations for the night
• Carry a cell phone; make sure it's charged
• Never enter a stranger's home or vehicle
• Don't trick-or-treat alone
• Remove all hazards from steps, porches, and sidewalks
• Keep candles away from combustible materials
• Report suspicious behavior to the Ames Police Department at 515.239.5133

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