Make Your Halloween All Treats, No Tricks

The Baltimore County Police Department suggests a few precautions this year before you open your door.

It may seem easier to leave your front door open with only the storm door closed, but please don't. Storm doors were not meant to act as deterrents to thieves and robbers. Keep your main door locked and don't open it until you've looked through a window or the door's peephole. Open your door to only those children and adults you know and recognize.

Police advise trick-or-treaters to be aware of their surroundings as well. Visit only those neighbors who are familiar to you. Remind children not to eat goodies before they get home. When they do arrive home, parents need to check the contents of their children's bags.

Look for such things as unwrapped candy, loose pieces of candy, and fruit. When checking candy wrappers, look for unusual markings or bumps and bulges. These could be signs of tampering. Throw away all unwrapped goodies. If something appears suspicious, err on the side of caution and get rid of it.

Some other suggestions:

• Adults should accompany young children, and older kids should travel in groups.
• Obey all traffic laws. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible and cross at crosswalks or corners. Never cross between parked cars.
• Do not go into any vehicles or homes while trick-or-treating. Wait outside for treats.
• Respect other people's property. Don't destroy it.
• Stay in your own neighborhood.
• Parents, make sure masks have large holes for the eyes. It is easy for little ones to trip and fall on a dark night. If possible, use make-up instead of a mask. Give children flashlights to carry with them. Flashlights or battery-powered Halloween torches or lamps enable them to see better. It also makes it easier for others, especially motorists, to see them.