Police offer Halloween safety tips

The Scotts Valley Police Department suggests several safety tips to make this Halloween a safe and enjoyable holiday.
• Trick-or-treat when it is still light outside.
• If you must go out in the dark, make sure your costume is light in color. Put fluorescent or reflective tape on your costume so drivers can see you.
• Wear a costume that is easy to walk in and see through. A face mask will keep you from seeing well. Take off the mask before crossing the street, or consider using makeup instead of a mask.
• Trick-or-treat with an older brother, sister or friend or a parent. If someone older can’t go with you, go with a group.
• Visit houses in your own neighborhood or one you know well. Plan your route ahead of time, and pick well-lit streets. Tell your family your route.
• Cross streets only at corners, and always look before crossing. Never cross the street from behind a parked car. Make sure to walk facing traffic.
• Stop at a reasonable hour. For older children, 9 p.m. is the suggested time.
• When you get home, sort, check and only then eat your treats. Don’t eat candy or treats that are not wrapped in a standard wrapper, unless you know exactly where they came from. Parents should look over all treats first, especially loosely wrapped candies. Homemade baked goods should also be inspected and cut into small pieces before being eaten. If you think there is evidence of candy tampering, tell police.