MERCER COUNTY, NJ — Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, and Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler wants the only scares on Oct. 31 to be the fun kind.
In a safety message ahead of the holiday, Kemler asked drivers to be extra careful on Halloween evening, when kids will be out in the dark going from door to door.
"Trick-or-treaters too often get overexcited and quickly forget about safety," Kemler said. "Please watch for trick-or-treaters running from house to house in the dark."
His main request for drivers is to slow down. Kemler asked motorists to drive 5 to 10 mph under the speed limit in residential areas on Halloween night.
Being seen is just as important for the kids, he said. Kemler recommends that trick-or-treaters wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight, a glow stick or a reflective bag.
"Dropping a small flashlight or glow stick into a child's trick-or-treat bag can also help light it up while walking from house to house and boost visibility," he said.
Grown-ups walking with their kids should think about making themselves easier to spot, too, Kemler added.
He reminded families that even the best costume won't keep anyone safe on a dark street.
"Being dressed up as a ghost, goblin, or superhero won't protect anyone from a trip, fall, or worse, an oncoming vehicle," Kemler said. "Let's all work together to make it a safe and fun night - for everyone - and have a Happy Halloween!"
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