Montgomery Twp Police Issue Safety Tips for Halloween

By Barbara A. Preston l October 20, 2021

Face masks to protect children from COVID should not be decorated with paint or magic markers that could be toxic.

This is just one of many safety tips released by the Montgomery Township Police on Tuesday to ensure local children experience a safe and fun Halloween, which will take place on Sunday, October 31, between 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

Crayola reusable cloth Halloween face masks for kids made with non-toxic ink.

"If you are planning to draw on your child’s mask, only use non-toxic markers, fabric paint, or fabric markers," according to Children's Hospital. "Also, do not sew anything onto the mask — a sewing needle can poke little holes that make the mask ineffective."

Planning your costume

When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls, whether around the house or on the street.

For greater visibility, decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colored clothing.

Choose non-toxic face paint and make-up whenever possible to ensure kids can see because a full-face Halloween masks can obstruct a child’s vision.

Tips for kids:

Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.

Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross.

Put electronic devices (cell phones) down, keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.

Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars and be especially careful around driveways and alleys.

Join kids under age 12 for trick-or-treating. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, tell them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit, stay on sidewalks if available, and trick-or-treat in small groups.

Tips for drivers:

Be especially alert and take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.

Slowdown in residential neighborhoods.

Reduce any distractions inside your car, such as talking on the phone or eating, so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.