Stay Safe this Halloween

• Keep costumes simple. Long or fancy costumes could cause falls.
  
• Wear comfortable street shoes. Avoid big floppy shoes.
  
• Carry along props should be made of plastic foam or cardboard with no sharp points.
  
• Hats, wigs or beards should be secure and out of eyes.
  
• Costumes should be fire retardant (fire proof).
  
• Use reflector patches or strips. Costumes made of white or light-colored material are more easily seen at night.
  
• Use non-toxic make-up instead of masks for better visibility. (For easier removal, apply a thin coat of cold cream before make-up).
  
• Trick-or-Treat bags should have handles to keep arms free.
  
• Bags should be easy to carry and should not drag the ground.
  
• Use flashlights - NO CANDLES!
  
• NEVER EAT TREATS FROM TRICK-OR-TREATING UNTIL THEY ARE EXAMINED BY A PARENT.
  
• Check wrappers of pre-packaged treats for signs of tampering and throw away anything unwrapped.
  
• If harmful items are found, NOTIFY YOUR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT.

TRICK OR TREAT

• With a responsible adult, or teen accompanying each group.
  
• In groups of only four or five children.
  
• With at least one person in the group carrying a flashlight in case it begins to get dark.
  
• In your own neighborhood, on well lighted streets. Only go to homes you know and that have porch lights on.
  
• Safely by never entering a strangers house even if invited and never take a ride from a stranger.
  
  
• Using sidewalks when possible. Walk! Never run across yards and look both ways before crossing streets.

General Crime Prevention Tips

The following tips can help prevent you from becoming a victim of a crime. If you have any questions about these tips, please call the Hurst Police Department.

• Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you are away from it, even for "just a minute".
  
• Always roll up the windows and lock the car, even if it is in front of your home or you are just running into the store for a minute.
  
• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or at least out of sight. Buy radios, tape and CD players that can be removed and locked in the trunk.
  
• Park in busy, well-lighted areas.
  
• Consider installing a security system. You may be able to get a discount on your auto insurance.
  
• Install a mechanical locking device (club, collar) that lockes to the steering wheel, column, or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more that a few degrees. Use it!
  
• Consider registering your car in HEAT. This program is where individuals voluntarily register their cars with the police and allow the police to stop their car during certain hours when they normally would not be driving (1 am to 5pm).
  
• Etch the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the windows, doors, fenders, and trunk lid.
  
• Copy the VIN and your tag number on a card and keep it in a safe place. If your vehicle is stolen, the police need this information.
  
• If your car is stolen or burglarized, report it to the police immediately.