The Idaho Falls Police Department wants to keep safety a priority – especially on Halloween. Here are a few tips to help ensure a safe and happy Halloween:

-Children under the age of 12 should have adult supervision when outside after dark. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.

-For children trick-or-treating without an adult, set a time for trick-or-treating and map out a safe route so an adult will know their location.

-Children should wear costumes that are bright and reflective so they are visible. Make sure shoes fit well and costumes are short enough to prevent tripping or other accidents.

-Avoid using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props are used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

-Turn off or put electronic devices away when walking.

-Always walk. Never run across a street. Pedestrians should cross the street at the corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right, and left again when crossing and keep looking until you have arrived safely on the other side. 

-Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic as far away from vehicles as possible.

-Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags.

-Motorists should remain cautious and drive slowly. Take extra time to look for children at intersections, on medians and on curbs. Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.

-Adult party-goers who are planning to consume alcohol should have a designated driver.

-Notify law enforcement authorities immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

For more Halloween safety tips, check out the IFPD’s Cop2ition Halloween Safety video on YouTube.

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