Be Smart, Play It Safe On Halloween Night

A release from Stoneham Safety Officer Joseph Ponzo:

The Stoneham Police Department is committed to keeping everyone safe during Halloween.

With the days getting darker earlier and the increasing amount of kids traveling the streets to enjoy this night, it is important to understand that the Stoneham Police Department will be increasing the amount of patrols throughout the night. We will have both marked and unmarked police vehicles patrolling the streets. Any person(s) observed vandalizing property or violating the law will be dealt with on a zero tolerance basis. We want to remind all kids to stay away from any of the public/private schools, for it is considered trespassing after dark.

With this in mind, I have a few safety tips for children, parents and motorists.

A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood routes. Only go to homes with a light on and never enter a home or a car for a candy or a treat. If possible, at least one member of the group should carry a charged mobile cell phone for quick communication with parents and/or police. Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. Stop at curbs and corners and if no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic. Never cross the street in between cars and always look both ways. Plan costumes that are bright, reflective and short enough to prevent tripping. Please avoid the use of candles and be sure to always purchase fire retardant costumes. Many costumes will print this
right on a tag or the inside of the costume. Flashlights and/or glow sticks are a good idea to carry
to remain visible.

Motorists should also understand that they are one of the biggest dangers on Halloween. Motorists should slow down in residential neighborhoods and obey all traffic signs and signals. Give yourself plenty of time for travel!! Watch for children walking on roadways, medians, curbs, sidewalks and streets with no sidewalks. Children sometimes dart out in to the street without realizing due to the excitement of the holiday and keeping your speed to the minimum will help increase your reaction time. Be careful backing up, there are a lot of small trick or treaters. Try and have someone back you up from outside of the vehicle if possible.

With these small tips in mind everyone can help make this holiday a safe and Happy Halloween!!

Remember Safety First!