Local agencies share tips and trick to keep trick-or-treaters safe
Oct. 30—As children prepare to celebrate Halloween with a night of trick-or-treating, many groups are sharing tips to stay safe for the holiday.
The city of St. Joseph has a number of recommendations for trick-or-treaters this year, including inspecting candy and utilizing reflective items so people are visible to drivers.
"Stay on known routes and in known neighborhoods," the city advised in a news release. "Remember to never allow a child to enter a stranger's home."
Families are advised to secure pets before trick-or-treaters arrive since you don't know how an animal will react to costumes. If you do not want to participate in Halloween festivities, keep exterior lights off.
The city of St. Joseph has more recommendations to keep people safe during the holiday on the city's website.
News-Press NOW also spoke with the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office about how to keep a more watchful eye on the candy that children are receiving during Halloween.
Eye safety is a topic of discussion when it comes to wearing Halloween costumes where people use colored contact lenses.
Halloween is a time when people try out new styles and accessories, but the FDA advises against using the holiday as a first time to try using contact lenses for recreational use.
A statement from the FDA said that without the proper involvement of an eye care professional, "it can lead to significant risks of eye injuries, including blindness."
The Missouri State Highway Patrol highlighted the importance of situational awareness when it comes to pedestrians crossing the street.
"Use sidewalks wherever possible when walking around a neighborhood," the patrol said in a news release. "An adult should always accompany small children, and older children should stay in groups."
The patrol also recommends that people trick or treat while it is light outside and to use a flashlight if out after dark.
More information regarding Halloween safety from the MSHP is available in an online release.
AAA recommended many ways to stay safe, especially when it comes to older celebrators and the consumption of alcohol.
The company recommends staying at a friend's house or even getting a hotel if drinking ensues. Additionally, always have a designated driver or some other form of transportation to arrive home safely.
The news release also provided statistics on alcohol consumption while driving.
"Alcohol-impaired drivers make up about one-third of all motor vehicle deaths, resulting in an average of one death every 45 minutes," the release said.
In Missouri, drivers can be charged with a DWI if the blood alcohol content is 0.08% or higher.
Riley Funk can be reached at riley.funk@newspressnow.com.
