The Cherry Hill Police Department recommends that families trick-or-treat between the hours of 3 and 7 p.m. this Halloween, Tuesday, Oct. 31, to ensure a safe, healthy and fun holiday for all. These are the same hours that have been recommended in past years. A 7 p.m. curfew is suggested for children under 18 not accompanied by an adult on Halloween, and police in marked and unmarked cars will be patrolling local streets, along with fire and emergency personnel and Neighborhood Watch Groups.
Additionally, Cherry Hill Police have issued the following recommendations to ensure the safety of trick-or-treaters, drivers, and neighbors:
o Keep exterior lights on throughout the night.
o Keep pets inside.
o Make sure cars are locked and/or in the garage.
o Watch for suspicious activity.
o Have children trick or treat in groups, and escort them in familiar neighborhoods only.
o Avoid masks that restrict vision – if the child is bike riding, avoid masks altogether.
o Remove outdoor objects Trick-or-Treaters might trip over.
o Use caution throughout the evening, driving slowly while traveling on Halloween.
ADDITIONAL TIPS FROM THE NATIONAL CONFECTIONERS ASSOCIATION:
o Wear light-colored clothing that is short enough to prevent tripping and add reflective tape to the sides, front and back of costumes.
o Adults should accompany young children.
o Go in daylight and carry a flashlight in case of delay.
o Watch for traffic.
o Only give and accept wrapped or packaged treats.
o Examine all candy before allowing children to eat it.
o Avoid hard plastic or wooden props such as daggers or swords. Substitute with foam rubber, which is soft and flexible.