Texas families preparing for Halloween should make visibility, adult supervision, and sober driving part of their plans, the Texas Department of Public Safety urged.
The announcement outlines precautions for trick-or-treaters, motorists, and people hosting gatherings before Halloween on Saturday, October 31.
“Halloween should be a night of fun and celebration, not a night of tragedy,” Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said in the DPS release.
Drivers should reduce their speed in neighborhoods and other areas where children collect candy, watch closely for pedestrians, and avoid assuming children see an approaching vehicle, DPS advised. The agency also urged motorists to put away distractions, buckle up everyone in the vehicle, and arrange a sober ride if they drink alcohol.
For families choosing costumes, DPS recommended bright or reflective materials and reflective tape on darker outfits. Flashlights, glow sticks, and wearable lights can help drivers spot children after dark. Face paint offers an alternative to masks that could block a child’s view, while soft, flexible accessories avoid the sharp edges of some costume props.
Adults should accompany trick-or-treaters in familiar neighborhoods, use sidewalks and crosswalks, and agree on a meeting place in case anyone becomes separated, according to the release. Children should know an adult’s phone number and how to call 911 if they become lost.
DPS also advised families to visit only well-lit homes and remind children never to enter a stranger’s house or vehicle for candy. Adults should inspect treats at home before children eat them and discard items without wrappers.
For people hosting Halloween gatherings, the agency urged locking firearms in a cabinet or safe. Its Safe Storage Campaign provides a checklist and information about storage options.
The recommendations build on familiar local precautions. Adult supervision, reflective clothing, and checking candy also featured in Dallas police guidance that The Dallas Express previously reported.
Texans can report suspicious activity through iWatchTexas online, its mobile app, or by calling 844-643-2251, DPS said. The agency states that all reports are confidential.
Provided by Dallas Express
