Chief Michael P. Murphy
150 Park St.
North Reading, MA 01864
For Immediate Release
Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
North Reading Police Issue Halloween Safety Guidelines
NORTH READING — With Halloween soon approaching, Chief Michael Murphy and the North Reading Police Department remind the community to be safe during fall festivities, especially for those who will be trick-or-treating.
Halloween, which is celebrated on Oct. 31, falls on a Monday this year. The suggested trick-or-treating hours for North Reading are 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Police also remind residents to use caution as they celebrate the weekend prior to Halloween, Oct. 28-30.
“Please ensure that all children’s costumes are easy to see at night and do not include accessories that could harm themselves or others,” Chief Murphy said. “In addition, I strongly discourage children and adults from dressing up like clowns in light of the recent incidents throughout the nation.”
The North Reading Police Department recommends that residents follow safety tips outlined by the Centers for Disease Control, which ask that people follow the “Safe Halloween” motto.
- Swords and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.
- Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
- Fasten reflective tape on costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
- Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before you eat them.
- Hold a flashlight while walking to ensure that you are visible. Walk and don’t run from house to house.
- Always test make up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
- Lower your risk of serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
- Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
- Only walk on sidewalks wherever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe and to prevent accidents or injury.
- Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.
- Eat only factory-wrapped candy. Avoid eating homemade treats offered by strangers.
- Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Never accept rides from strangers.
- Never walk near lit candles or devices with open flames. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
Any parents or residents with questions on Halloween safety should contact Community Services Sergeant Derek Howe at 978-357-5064.
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