Halloween is Monday, October 31, and of course we want to see who can collect the most goodies before the end of the night, but there’s one more thing that’s important about the for trick-or-treaters on this annual fun filled holiday, safety.

The Louisiana State Police (LSP) encourages everyone to "make safety a top priority this Halloween,” said a LSP press release. Parents and guardians are encouraged to “remain vigilant for possible hazards and dangerous situations.”

Below are a few "common safety tips” LSP suggests:


  • Ensure that your child carries a flashlight or glow stick, and/or wears reflective clothing or costumes to alert drivers of the child’s location.
  • Masks can restrict vision and breathing, restricting sight of oncoming vehicles. Face painting is a safe option.
  • Costumes should fit children correctly and not drag the ground, as this could create a tripping hazard.
  • Children should be accompanied by adults/parents and should not be allowed to enter homes or vehicles without their supervision.
  • Plan your trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets.
  • Always walk on sidewalks when available. If walking on the street is necessary, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
  • Children should also know their address, phone number, and how to dial 911 for emergencies. Young children should have this information attached somewhere on their costume in the event they get separated or lost.
  •  Parents are urged to inspect all candy for safety after returning home.

Under current State Law, it is illegal for a registered sex offender to participate in Halloween trick-or-treat activities. Parents can find accurate information regarding the presence of sex offenders and predators in their neighborhoods by visiting the Louisiana Sex Offender and Child Predator Registry online at: http://www.lsp.org/socpr/default.html. If you become aware of a sex offender who is attending costume parties or giving out candy where children are present, notify your local law enforcement immediately.
Motorists should also use caution this Halloween. With all the trick-or-treating excitement, children may inadvertently dart across the street into the path of moving vehicles. Because of this, motorists are being asked to not only drive with extreme caution, but also to drive extra slow in neighborhoods and residential areas. By driving with headlights on during daylight hours, children, as well as other vehicles, are more likely to see them from greater distances.

Historically, Halloween is a particularly deadly night due to impaired drivers. On Halloween night last year, over half of all highway fatalities nationwide involved an impaired driver. For those adult trick-or-treaters whose Halloween festivities include consuming alcoholic beverages, we strongly encourage you to have a plan in place for a safe ride home. Your plan can include such ideas as having a designated driver or calling a taxi, as long as it does not involve you getting behind the wheel of a vehicle impaired or allowing friends or family to drive impaired. Remember, Halloween is meant to be scary, but not when it comes to driving! Be Responsible, Don’t Drink and Drive!
“Halloween can be an exciting time of the year for children and adults alike,” stated Colonel Mike Edmonson, Louisiana State Police Superintendent. “Whether walking in your neighborhood trick-or-treating with family or driving to and from costume parties with friends, safety should be your top priority this Halloween. So while enjoying festivities, please take the time to remind those you love the importance of celebrating safely.”
The Louisiana State Police wishes everyone a safe and festive Halloween!

Find what other Halloween events are happening in and around the City of Lake Charles by going to our EVENTS tab above. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable Halloween from all of us here at Townsquare Media Lake Charles as well!

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