Shreveport Prepares for a Safe and Spooktacular Halloween!
As the leaves fall and the temperature begins to dip, excitement fills the air in Shreveport, Louisiana. Halloween is just around the corner, and little ghouls and goblins are gearing up for a night of trick-or-treating. However, before you don your costume and hit the streets, the Shreveport Police Department has some important safety tips for families and drivers to ensure that everyone has a fun and safe Halloween.
Keep Those Costumes Safe and Visible!
According to Cpl. Chris Bordelon from the Shreveport Police Department, maximizing visibility is key to keeping everyone safe this Halloween. “Make sure that the kids are illuminated and visible to headlights,” he advises. This means equipping your little ones with items like flashlights, glow sticks, or even a simple white pillowcase to carry their candy. Wearing bright colors can also help make them more noticeable to passing cars.
Patience is a Virtue for Drivers
If you’re planning to drive around on Halloween night, you’ll need to be extra cautious. Cpl. Bordelon says, “Have patience and understand we’re going to have people traveling throughout the city that may not cross the street when they are supposed to.” So, keep your eyes peeled, slow down in neighborhoods, and be prepared for sudden stops—after all, it’s not every day you see a ghost zoom past your car!
Plan Safe Routes for Trick-or-Treating
When it comes to trick-or-treating, planning is essential. Cpl. Bordelon encourages parents to create a trusted route through their neighborhoods and set estimated return times with their children. “We want children to go in groups and have a route they have discussed with their parents or guardians, so if they’re not home by a certain time, parents have a starting point for a search,” he explains. It’s all about keeping everyone in the know and ensuring the kids have fun while staying safe.
The Buddy System is Key
No one likes to trick-or-treat alone, so make sure kids are heading out in groups! Bordelon suggests that parents send kids out in numbers while also equipping them with a cell phone. “If you’re not going with the children, at least send them in groups with a cell phone so they have a way to contact parents or authorities,” he says. This way, peace of mind is just a text away.
Checking the Haul: Safety First!
Once the candy is collected, the fun isn’t over just yet. Parents should be vigilant when it comes to inspecting the treats before kids dig in. “Don’t eat candy that has already been opened. Examine the candy,” Bordelon warns. “If something doesn’t look right, do not eat it.” This is a critical step, as it ensures kids’ safety amidst all the sugary goodness. The last thing anyone wants is for Halloween to turn sour!
Enjoy Halloween, but Stay Smart!
As we approach this spooky yet festive occasion, it’s important to remember that Halloween is all about fun—dressing up, collecting candy, and perhaps scaring a few neighbors along the way! By following these tips from local authorities, families can enjoy a safe and delightful Halloween. So, stay visible, stick together, and above all, have a fang-tastic time!
