Melbourne Police Encourage Safe Halloween Activities
A safe Halloween for the community is the goal of the Melbourne Police Department in issuing recommendations for both parents and children who will be engaging in trick or treat activities on Saturday, Oct. 31.
“We just want to offer reminders on ways to help make Halloween a safe time,” said Jane Meier, police community relations coordinator. She said police recommend that trick or treat activities be scheduled between 6 and 9 p.m. on Halloween night.
Police also encourage consideration of alternative activities such as parties at home, in schools, and at community centers, along with activities sponsored by businesses such as the 5 to 8 p.m. ‘Mall-o-Ween’ planned at the Melbourne Square Mall.
Recommendations for those engaged in trick or treat activities include:
-- Children should carry a glow stick or flashlight and wear reflective clothing. All costumes and masks to be used should be clearly marked as flame resistant. Face masks should be used only if children can see and breathe properly and easily.
-- Children should trick-or-treat with others. An adult should accompany young children and friends should accompanying older students.
-- Parents should go with children to the door of each house and treats should be accepted only from people known by the parents. Never approach a house that is not well lit and does not have a porch light or outside light on.
-- Children should be cautioned to not enter any home without prior permission from their parents, and should not approach any vehicle, occupied or not, unless they know the owner and are accompanied by a parent.
-- Children should be instructed to scream and make a scene if anyone tries to grab them or force them, in any way, to go with them. Children should be cautioned to remember any suspicious incidents and promptly report them to their parents or an official.
-- Parents should inspect all treats and dispose of anything that seems to have been tampered with, is not wrapped, or has been opened.
CONTACT: Mike Moore, Public Information Officer
321/953-6282 - cityhall@melbourneflorida.org