Here are some safety tips from the Alma Department of Public Safety to make this Halloween a safe and exciting time:

Costume Considerations

• Masks can obstruct vision, so opt for face make-up instead. If you or your child does wear a mask, look for one with large eye, mouth, and nose holes to ensure comfortable breathing and sight.
• Make sure that a child's costume and shoes fit comfortably and allows him/her to walk without tripping.
• Make sure your children's costumes are not constructed out of flammable materials.
• Bright colors and reflective stripes increase costume visibility at night.
• Avoid sharp or hard accessories that may cause injuries if the child falls. Reconsider weapons props that appear too realistic.

Trick-or-Treating Guidelines

• Know your children's trick-or-treating route and what time they are expected home.
• Do not take shortcuts through backyards, alleys, or parks.
• Take a flashlight with fresh batteries when trick-or-treating.
• Children should always stay in groups and with a responsible chaperone. Parents should accompany younger children, if possible.
• Make chaperones aware of any severe food allergies that may be included in treats.
• Attach a note or wristband to the costume of young children with their name, address, and contact information, in case they become separated from the group.
• Remind children not to enter stranger's homes or cars.
• Explain to your child that he/she should not eat treats before parents have inspected them. Treating your kids to a spooky Halloween dinner will make them less likely to eat the candy they collect before you have a chance to check it for them.

Other Safety Thoughts

• Welcome trick-or-treaters with your porch lights on. Increase lighting in areas where items may be tripped over, such as low to the ground Halloween decorations.
• Do not give homemade or unwrapped treats to children.
• Drive slowly on Halloween. Be on the alert for excited youngsters, whose vision may be obscured by masks, running out into traffic. Caution teenage drivers about Halloween driving safety hazards.
• Discourage the use of roller-skates, skateboards, or bicycles during this time of heightened pedestrian traffic.
• Use extra care when carving pumpkins. Consider painting faces or designs on pumpkins instead.

As always, report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police immediately. For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergencies, contact Central Dispatch at (989) 875-7505.