TRICK OR TREAT SAFELY IN SPRINGFIELD

for more information:
Ernie Slottag 789-2235

As the City announces its official Trick or Treat hours, Mayor J. Michael Houston reminds everyone to be safe during the Halloween season. The City of Springfield’s Halloween Trick or Treat hours are 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 31, 2011.

“The last thing we want is to have someone injured because preventive measures weren’t taken to ensure their safety,” Mayor Houston said. “When you Trick or Treat, always go out with an adult and wear light colored clothing so that you can easily be seen. We want you to enjoy this special holiday safely.”

      Halloween safety tips:

•    Children should always be accompanied by parents or an older responsible adult.

•    Trick or Treating should be confined to local neighborhoods and the homes of friends and relatives. Springfield residents who wish to be visited by Trick or Treaters should turn on their porch lights. Children should only visit those homes that have the porch lights on.

•    Face masks may obscure vision so the use of face paint or makeup should be considered as an alternative.

•    Children should carry lighted flashlights or light sticks. Their costumes should have visible reflective strips and be light in color.

•    Children should always cross at corners and crosswalks. They should walk and not run across the street after looking both ways.

•    Springfield residents who wish to treat children should only hand out items that have been factory wrapped or sealed. Children should only accept items that are factory wrapped or sealed. Any other items, such a fruit, popcorn balls or homemade goods should be discarded. Children should not eat any treats until they have been checked by an adult. If parents suspect any treats of having been tampered with, they should contact the Springfield Police Department at 788-8311.

•    Parents should consider alternatives to Trick or Treating such as attending organized functions or having a Halloween party instead of Trick or Treating.

Additional safety tips can be found on the City’s Website at Halloween Safety Tips.