PITMAN — With the Halloween quickly approaching, the Pitman Police Department would like to offer parents and their children some basic safety tips to help prepare for a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treating.

For children — Please stay on the sidewalks, cross at intersections, obey traffic signals and look both ways before crossing the street. 

Walk – do not run! Do not hide or cross the street between parked cars, and do not cut across yards or driveways. Wear light-colored clothing with reflective markings or tape for better visibility. Wear costumes that do not drag on the ground and wear shoes that fit properly. Use face paint rather than a mask, which can obstruct breathing and vision. If you must wear a mask, remove it while walking from house to house. Carry a flashlight and keep away from open fires and candles (most costumes are extremely flammable). Trick-or-treat in familiar neighborhoods and visit homes that have the porch light on. Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger’s house. Be cautious of dogs and do not acccept rides from strangers. Before eating any candy or treats make sure it is inspected by your parents. If you notice or experience a strange or suspicious person(s) or activity, report it to your local police department immediately.

For parents — If you buy a costume, look for flame-retardant material. It is extremely important that younger children be accompanied by an adult and do not go out alone. Older children should know where you are and be able to reach you at all times. You should also be familiar with the neighborhood and aware of the route they are traveling. Be sure they wear a watch that is visible at night and ensure that they are inside your home at curfew.

Curfew in Pitman is 8 p.m. on Oct. 30 and Halloween, Oct. 31, for all Halloween activities not related to school, church, or community-sponsored events. 

Inspect all candy and treats carefully. Notify your local police department immediately if you suspect tampering.

For the motoring public — Be extremely cautious all evening. Please drive slow, and be cautious of children wandering into and around the streets.

Trick-or-treating will be celebrated on Halloween, which is Friday, Oct. 31, until 8 p.m.  

If you have questions, concerns or suggestions pertaining to Halloween safety, please feel free to contact Chief Robert T. Zimmerman of the Pitman Police Department.