Rosemount Police, Fire Offer Halloween Safety Tips

Children will be decked out in costumes this evening for some annual trick-or-treating. To ensure people stay safe, the Rosemount police and fire departments have offered some Halloween safety tips.

Rosemount Fire Chief Scott Aker said, "We really encourage all trick-or-treaters to go out with an adult."

"Children also need to watch for cars because cars don't always see them," Aker said. "I know my kids would run from house to house, and if they're not watching for cars, something could happen."

"[Also, a] reminder to all drivers: please slow down in the neighborhoods, be alert and anticipate heavier than usual pedestrian traffic [Monday] between 5:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.," Officer Beth Richtsmeier said. "[In addition, trick-or-treaters should] cross streets safely, and cross at intersections using the crosswalk/traffic signals if possible. Just because one car stops, doesn’t mean the other cars will. Make sure all cars have stopped before entering the street to cross. [Also,] do not cross between parked cars."

Concerning fire safety, Aker said those who will be displaying pumpkins outside with candles in them need to make sure the candle is out before going to bed. He also recommends never leaving lit pumpkins alone.

"Adults should also make sure to remind kids not to dip their fingers in the lit pumpkins," Aker said.

Other safety tips Richtsmeier has for parents and children: 

-Have each child carry or wear something lit, such as a flashlight, glow bracelet or [flashing] necklace for visibility. Parents can also add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags; even light-up shoes can be noticeable on a dark Halloween night.

-Make sure your child's costume lets them see and hear so they can watch and listen for cars.

-A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their trick-or-treat routes.

-If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home, and possibly have them carry a cell phone for easy contact or ability to call 911 if needed.

-Children should never enter a home or a car for a treat.

-Stay on well lit sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as fast to the left as possible. 

-Call 911 immediately to notify of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

-Have an adult check all treats before children eat them. If in doubt, throw it out.