Pedestrian Safety and Halloween Tips
During these continuing unprecedented times the Warren Township Police would like to take this opportunity to advise our residents of some Halloween safety tips for this unique trick-or-treating season. Additionally, we always encourage those driving to be extra cautious and look out for pedestrians. Safety is a shared responsibility.
As a reminder, no one should participate in these activities if they or a household member have known exposure to COVID-19, are sick/symptomatic, of have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and have not yet met the criteria for discounting isolation.
We are encouraging that trick-or-treating take place between 3:00pm – 7:00pm on Halloween.
COVID-19 safety tips:
- Those who plan to trick-or-treat should limit their groups to current household members, consider staying local, and limit the number of houses of their route. Social distancing should be practiced between all who are not in the same household.
- Consider coordinating with neighbors to develop a system, such as signs or on/off porch lights, for distinguishing houses participating in trick or treating and those who are not.
- If you’re planning a Halloween party, make sure you are up to date with the most current restrictions for outdoor and indoor gatherings.
Safety tips for trick-or-treaters and pedestrians:
- Keep alert and walk safely. Put electronic devices down, and WALK, don’t run, across the street keeping your eyes (and ears) on the road.
- Always walk on sidewalks and always cross at the marked cross walks. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far away from vehicles as possible, and try to cross at a well-lit intersection.
- Kids and adults alike should carry glow sticks or flashlights, as well as wear some type of reflective clothing, to help them see and be seen by drivers. Never assume a driver sees you.
- Watch for cars exiting or backing up from driveways and parking lots. Never “dart” out into the street or cross between parked cars.
- Be predicable. Always follow the rules of the road, and obey all traffic signals/signs.
Safety tips for drivers:
- Drive extra carefully on Halloween and during the Fall evening hours. Take extra time to look for pedestrians at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
- Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
- Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways. Adults may be distracted and not paying attention.
Our utmost concern is for the safety and well-being of our residents and the children enjoying the holiday. The Warren Township Police Department wishes you a Happy Halloween!
Chief William Keane
Warren Township Police Department
