Halloween Safety Tips From The GCPD

Garden City Police Commissioner Ernest J. Cipullo advises that the Halloween season is upon us. It is supposed to be a time of good fun but it is also a time when our children are most vulnerable. A few safeguards should be in effect. In an effort to protect our chil-dren and help make this Halloween a safe and enjoyable one, the Garden City Police Department recommends the following safety tips:

•Children should wear light-colored clothing that is short enough to prevent tripping, and add reflective tape. Make sure children can see well through face masks, or use make-up. Go out in daylight and carry a flashlight in case of delay.

•Adults should accompany young children.

•Young children especially, should stay within their neighborhood and only visit homes they know. Children should be instructed to never enter a home or a vehicle of a stranger. Children should have a planned safe return route home.

•Children should be instructed to watch for traffic, cross at street corners, walk on sidewalks where available, stay in well lit areas and avoid cutting across rear yards, alleys and fields.

•Only give and accept wrapped or packaged candy. All candy should be inspected by a responsible adult before consumption.

•Keep costumed children away from pets. The pet may not recognize the child and become frightened.

•Children should be instructed to avoid pranks such as but not limited to throwing eggs, spraying shaving cream or spraying silly string which can be very dangerous and could result in serious injuries to others. Avoid hard plastic or wood props such as daggers or swords.

With regard to youthful exuberance and the potential for mischief and pranks, parents may wish to accept responsibility and impose curfew times appropriate for age groups as needed. Merchants are requested to limit sales of products that can be used to create mischief. As always, additional police patrols will be on hand.

Be alert for any unusual circumstance. Notify the Police Department of anything of a suspicious nature immediately by calling 911. As a reminder, the Police non-emergency line is 516-465-4100.

Commissioner Cipullo states "The Garden City Police Department believes that following the above tips will help children have a safe and enjoyable Halloween evening and at the same time, not cause inconvenience to their neighbors."