Tips For A Safe Halloween From The Erie Co Sheriff

Erie County Sheriff Timothy Howard has released tips for a safe Halloween according to our friends at NEWS 4 BUFFALO (WIVB-TV).

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Some of the guidelines from the Sheriff's Office and the CDC include:

Recommendations for Parents:

• Check with your City, Town, or Village for the hours of trick-or-treating.
• Map out your route and check Offender Watch or NYS Sex Offender Registry for registered sex offenders in the areas you plan to visit.
• Inspect all treats at home, discard any unwrapped treats

Recommendations for Kids:

• Light-colored costumes with some kind of reflective tape are recommended. Carry a flashlight or a cell phone with a bright light. Consider putting reflective tape on bags too.
• Make sure you're cell phone is accessible for quick communication.
• Only go to familiar homes and where the outside lights are on.
• NEVER enter a home or car to collect treats.

General recommendations:

• Follow all COVID-19 guidelines, including social distancing.
• It is advisable to wear a protective mask under the costume’s mask.
• Wash hands with soap and water when you get home and before you eat any treats.
• Check CDC Halloween guidelines.

For Candy Distributors:

• Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
• Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
• Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take.