HALLOWEEN 2007
 October 22, 2007, Antrim, NH – On October 31, several hundred witches, goblins, super heroes, and princesses will take to Antrim streets when cleverly costumed children go looking for treats. The "trick or treat" hours in Antrim are between 5:00pm and 8:00pm. This is a much loved evening for many youngsters who will be running out of shear excitement and the Antrim Police Department wants to remind community members that the biggest dangers kids face on this evening are injuries from tripping and falling and pedestrian/car accidents.
To ensure a safe Halloween, the Antrim Police Department recommends the following safety rules.
Children should:
· Go only to well-lit houses and remain on porches rather than entering houses.
· Travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult.
· Know their phone number in case an emergency telephone call is necessary.
· Bring treats home before eating them so parents can inspect them.
· Use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid or sharp.
When walking in neighborhoods Children should:
· Use flashlights, stay on sidewalks, and avoid crossing yards.
· Cross streets at the corner, use crosswalks (where they exist), and do not cross between parked cars.
· Stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing.
· Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame retardant.
· Consider using face paint instead of masks. (Masks can obstruct a child's vision.)
· Avoid wearing hats that will slide over their eyes.
· Avoid wearing long, baggy or loose costumes or oversized shoes (to prevent tripping).
· Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
Parents and adults should:
· Supervise the outing for children under age 12.
· Establish a curfew (a return time) for older children.
· Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks and by placing jack-o-lanterns away from doorways and landings.
· Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats to young children.
· Inspect all candy for safety before children eat it.
Parents and adults should ensure the safety of pedestrian trick-or-treaters:
· Make sure children are supervised as they cross the street.
· Drive slowly.
· Watch for children in the street and on medians.
· Exit driveways and alleyways carefully.
· Have children get out of cars on the curbside, not on the traffic side.
And a few tips about pumpkins:
· Carve pumpkins on stable, flat surfaces with good lighting.
· Have children draw a face on the outside of the pumpkin and have parents do the cutting.
· Place lighted pumpkins away from curtains and other flammable objects, and do not leave lighted pumpkins unattended.
Parents are encouraged to share these tips with their children to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for the entire family.
Above all, please have a safe and enjoyable Halloween.
Todd E. Feyrer
Chief of Police
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