By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Halloween is nearly here and the Hays Police Department wants you to help make it safe for children.

“Welcome trick-or-treaters approaching your residence with the porch light and other exterior lighting turned on,” recommends HPD Asst. Chief Brian Dawson.

Motorists should be extra cautious.

“Slow down and be careful during trick-or-treating hours. Little kids sometimes get anxious and might want to jot across the roadway without paying attention to traffic if they’re excited.”

There are also safety tips for the trick-or-treaters themselves.

“Make sure they go trick-or-treating with a grownup or older sibling. Visit only people they know and have a route to follow with a designated time they’re expected to be back home.”

Halloween costumes should fit properly.

“Children should be able to see and hear properly while wearing their costume and the length shouldn’t be so long as to cause a tripping hazard. They’re going to be moving in the dark or during lower light.”

Keep Fido in mind during all the fun. “Don’t scare the dog with Halloween costumes. We don’t think about that–it can kind of rile up the family pet.”

Costumes and clothing should be brightly colored and reflective. “Reflective patches can be added,” Dawson suggests, “or kids can wear a glow stick, carry a flashlight to help illuminate the path where they’re walking.”

He also recommends what may be difficult for some.

“Don’t eat the treats until you get home and the adults have a chance to look at what’s in the goody bag.

“The Hays Police Department wants to with everyone a safe and happy Halloween,” Dawson added.