Trick or treaters taking to city streets, warnings go out to motorists, parents

Trick or treaters will be out in force tonight gathering up Halloween goodies and law enforcers are asking all to take precautions to insure it is a safe celebration.

El Campo police officer and Crime Stoppers coordinator Cindy Howell recommended children go only to homes of people who the parents know, and only approach doors where the porch light is turned on.

"Children need to pay close attention to parents and stay with the parents," she said.

To help make children more visible, Howell recommends costumes have reflective tape on them. Children should also carry flashlights to help make the candy run safer, she said.

And children should trick-or-treat in groups and always have an adult along for the walk.

"The kids need to really watch the traffic and not dart out in front of vehicles," Howell said. "At nighttime, especially with costumes on, drivers just don't see the children."

With a few tips, ghosts and goblins can return to their haunts safely and with a full bag of treats.

"Many of those pedestrians will not be watching out for their safety, so drivers will have to be extra vigilant," said Col. Thomas A. Davis Jr., director of the DPS. "Drivers should slow down, watch for trick-or-treaters and designate a sober driver. All pedestrians should pay attention to their surroundings."

Have a safe costume and trip:

• Avoid toy guns and knives.

• Wear costumes that are light in color and short enough to avoid tripping.

• Wear shoes that fit.

• Place reflective material on the costume.

• Avoid masks - use face paint instead for better visibility and peripheral vision.

• Carry a flashlight.

• Look both ways before crossing roadways. Always walk, don't run.

• Cross the roadway at intersections and crosswalks when possible.

• Travel in groups with adult supervision.

• Make sure children know their home phone number and how to call 911

• Take treats home for an adult to inspect before eating anything. Never eat unwrapped candy.