The Bossier City Police Department is advising children and parents to exercise safety while Trick or Treating on Halloween night, Monday October 31. Police Chief Shane McWilliams is urging motorists to be especially mindful that night of pedestrians and limit their driving on residential streets if at all possible. Police will step up patrols in residential areas on Halloween night where children are present.

The department also encourages parents to take advantage of organized, supervised Halloween events. Those going door to door seeking treats are advised to end their Trick or Treating by 8 p.m. on Halloween as a courtesy to residents.

Additionally, the Bossier City Police Department is offering the following safety tips to parents whose children will be out trick-or-treating:

• Never allow children to trick-or-treat without responsible adult supervision.
• Always stay in groups.
• Keep costumes simple. Avoid long, fancy costumes that may cause children to trip and fall.
• Use sidewalks and stay out of the street whenever possible.
  
• Wear reflective clothing or bright costumes.
  
• Trick-or-treat only in familiar neighborhoods.
  
• Don't allow children to eat treats until a responsible grownup examines them first.
  
• Call police if any suspicious activity occurs, or if candy is suspected to be tainted.
  
• Residents are urged to hand out only manufactured, sealed candy.
  

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