30 October 2010

Halloween Tips from MPD

MPD STRESSES SAFETY, OFFERS ACTIVITIES
AT DISTRICT STATIONS THIS HALLOWEEN

To help ensure that youngsters across DC have a safe and fun place to celebrate Halloween,
many of the MPD police districts are holding special Halloween events over the Halloween
weekend. Festivities include parties, haunted houses and Halloween celebrations at many of
the seven police stations. All of the events are free and designed to provide an opportunity
for Halloween fun for young people and parents who might want an alternative to trick-or treating
in the community.

For those who will be out and about on Halloween, the MPD offers a number of commonsense
safety tips to help keep young ghosts and goblins safe. For example, in selecting costumes,
bright, reflective and flame-retardant materials are a must, as are comfortable, well fitting
shoes. Instead of masks, which can restrict vision, youngsters are encouraged to get creative
with face paints. To promote their safety while walking, trick-or-treaters are reminded to stay
on the sidewalk and to cross only at the corner (never between cars). Motorists need to slow
down and be on the lookout for children. Homeowners are encouraged to turn on exterior
lights and clean up any debris near their property that children could trip on. And, of course,
youngsters should never go into peoples’ homes, talk to or accept rides from strangers, or eat
any goodies before adults have a chance to inspect them.