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Halloween, 2002

N E W S  R E L E A S E
Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is on a Thursday night this year. The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office recommends "Trick-or-Treat" activities be conducted between the hours of 6:00 - 8:00 on the evening of Thursday, October 31.

Here are some suggestions from Sheriff Charlie Morris for Halloween safety:

• Select costumes with safety in mind. Avoid masks that restrict vision. Long, flowing costumes may become snagged or cause the wearer to trip.
• Make sure the costume does not impair mobility for safe walking or driving.
• When out at night, carry a flashlight with strong batteries.
• Make certain all materials used in the costume are fire-retardant.
• Trick-or-Treaters should stay in familiar neighborhoods.
• Not everyone participates in Halloween. Bypass houses that are dark and not decorated.
• Children should stay in groups, with an adult or responsible older child present to supervise at all times.
• Carefully inspect all food items prior to consuming them.
• Keep pets indoors.
• Motorists should exercise special caution in residential areas. Adult party goers should make "designated Driver" arrangements if alcohol will be served.

Also, bear in mind, starting four nights before Halloween, darkness will arrive early, with Daylight Saving Time ending at 2:00 AM on Sunday morning, October 27.

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