The Monroe Police Department
wants everyone to have a very safe and happy Halloween
So please follow these safety rules:

Getting Prepared

Select a costume that is easy to walk in and made of white or light-colored material that is easily seen at night. If necessary, add highly reflective materials to costumes and to bags.

Instead of a face mask which can obscure the child's vision, choose colorful face paints.

Fix hats so they don't slip over the eyes. Dress the kids in shoes that fit.

Give trick-or-treaters flashlights. They'll have fun, and be seen more easily.

Do not allow children to carry knives, swords or other props unless they are soft and flexible. Nor should they carry toys that might be mistaken for actual weapons.

Homeowners should clear sidewalks, repair loose railings, repair potholes in the yard and remove toys, ladders or any other obstacle that could cause a fall.

While Trick-or-Treating

Always walk, don't run, to avoid falling.

Cross only at corners, never between parked cars or in the middle of the block where motorists may not see you.

Stay on sidewalks. Don't cut through yards.

If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic, but as far off the road as possible.

Never enter a stranger's house, even if you're invited.

Allow children to exit cars from the curb side only.

Restrict visits to homes where porch or outside lights are on.

Have younger children travel in small groups, accompanied by an older child or adult.

Set a time for older children to be home.

Motorist should turn on their headlights well before dusk, drive slowly and watch for children at all times.

Back Home

Discard homemade treats or anything that is unwrapped, in case it has been contaminated.

Wash fruit and cut it into small pieces before eating to make sure no foreign objects have been inserted.

Notify the police if anything dangerous is found so we can find the person responsible as quickly as possible.