CITY OF BATAVIA FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS OFFER HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

The City of Batavia will recognize Halloween on Monday, October 31st from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the Batavia Police and Fire Departments are once again reminding the community to adhere to various safety tips. Trick or treaters should be off the streets by 9 p.m. on Halloween night. Walk Safety Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals, sidewalks and crosswalks. Look left, right, and left again when crossing, and keep looking as you cross. Put electronic devices down and keep heads up crossing the street. Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them. Always walk on sidewalks or paths.

Watch for cars that are turning or back up. “We cannot stress enough that people should not be using their electronic devices while walking especially when crossing the street,” said City of Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch. “It’s also important that drivers pay extra attention as there are more pedestrians on the street.”

  • Trick or Treat with an Adult Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision.
  • If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, remind them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups. Keep Costumes Creative and Safe Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers, and if possible choose light colors.
  • Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks. Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen. When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.
  • Drive Extra Safely on Halloween Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited about Halloween and move in unpredictable ways.
  • Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, medians, and curbs.
  • Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
  • Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road.
  • Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic, and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances. As always, consuming alcohol and driving does not mix.
  • If you are attending any Halloween parties celebrate safely and do not drink and drive.

“Halloween decorations have become more and more popular and with that comes potential fire hazards, said Batavia Interim-Fire Chief Dan Herberger.  “Remember to keep decorations away from light bulbs, heaters, and any open flames. Dried out decorations such as hay, cornstalks, paper are flammable items that can easily catch on fire.” Source:  Batavia Police Department

Sourced via CRIMEWATCH®: https://crimewatch.net/us/ny/genesee/batavia-pd/138661/post/city-batavia...