Shreveport Gears Up for a Safe Halloween
As Halloween approaches, the air is filled with excitement in Shreveport, Louisiana! Children are dreaming of costumes, candy, and spooky decorations. However, as the spookiest day of the year draws near, the local police department is urging families and drivers to take safety seriously. With trick-or-treating just around the corner, it’s essential to keep our little ghosts and goblins safe on the streets.
Visibility is Key
Cpl. Chris Bordelon of the Shreveport Police Department shares some valuable advice for parents and drivers alike. “Making sure kids are illuminated and visible to headlights should be a top concern,” he emphasizes. Halloween is particularly tricky for drivers as excited children dart from house to house. “For those driving on Halloween, 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,” he adds. So, it’s important for drivers to be hyper vigilant and watch for those little ones in the roadways.
Tips for Trick-or-Treating
As families prepare to hit the streets in search of candy, Cpl. Bordelon suggests avoiding poorly lit areas and homes with no lights on—these are signs that neighbors may not be participating in the candy handout. He recommends that trick-or-treaters carry a flashlight, a glow stick, or even a white pillowcase. “Anything that will make them visible to traffic should be worn,” says Bordelon.
It’s also crucial that children are supervised during their nighttime adventures. Parents are encouraged to have an adult or older teenager accompany younger kids. To keep everyone safe, suggest creating a pre-planned route through the neighborhood with estimated return times. “We want children to go in groups and have a route they have discussed with their parents or guardians,” he explains. This way, if the kids aren’t home by a certain time, parents will already have an idea of where to search first.
Stay Connected
In this digital age, equipping trick-or-treaters with a cell phone can be a game-changer. It allows kids a way to contact their parents or the police if they find themselves in a sticky situation. “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,” urges Bordelon.
Inspecting the Loot
Once the bags are full of sweet treats, the fun doesn’t stop there. Parents should take the time to inspect the goodies. “Don’t eat candy that has already been opened,” Bordelon warns. “Examine the candy. If something doesn’t look right, do not eat it.” It’s always a good idea to be hyper vigilant during candy checks, as things could be disguised as candy that aren’t safe for children.
Finding the Balance
The focus of Halloween isn’t just about the spooky costumes and heaps of candy—it’s about the fun and memories we make. With just a few easy precautions, families can enjoy all the Halloween festivities while keeping safety at the forefront. Cpl. Bordelon reminds everyone to be cautious yet rejoice in the festivities. “Have a frightfully fun Halloween, but remember to keep those little ones safe!”
So, get your costumes ready, plan your routes, and let’s make this Halloween a memorable one in Shreveport! Happy Haunting!
