MNPD tips for a Safe Halloween

The Metro Nashville Police Department has released the following information to help residents stay safe while trick-or-treating tonight:

Police officers will be on Halloween alert in neighborhoods throughout Nashville this evening and will take very seriously any attempts to scare citizens by giving children harmful candy items or by committing any type of disruptive behavior.

The police department urges motorists to drive very carefully through residential areas on the way home today, as many trick-or-treaters will already have started their rounds. Parents are urged to closely monitor their children’s trick-or-treat activities and to keep in mind these safety recommendations:

• Trick-or-treaters should carry flashlights.
• Persons should give, and children should accept, only wrapped or packaged candy.
  
• Children should bring their treats home for adult inspection before the candy is eaten.
  
• Children should wear light-colored clothing that is short enough to prevent tripping. Reflective tape should be added.
  
• Make sure children can see well enough through their face masks. Consider make-up or face paint as an alternative.
  
• Keep costumed children away from pets, particularly dogs. The pet may not recognize the child, become frightened, and react in a vicious manner.
  
• Choose costumes that are flame retardant, and use props, such as magic wands and swords made out of foam rubber or cardboard, rather than metal or wood.