A Fort Jackson police officers will in the housing areas handing out candy to trick or treaters in the post housing area Oct. 31. (Photo by Nathan Clinebelle)

Post offers trick or treaters safety tips

Fort Jackson Public Affairs

Fort Jackson has announced the official hours for trick or treating through on post housing Oct. 31.

That’s right. The official time for going door to door for treats is from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Oct. 31. Fort Jackson Fire Department and Fort Jackson Police Department will be in the housing areas passing out treats and keeping the fun safe for all.

Trick-or-treating should be a time of fun and dressing up safely. Here are some tips to keep your holiday time safe.

General Safety

  • Children should travel in small groups and be accompanied by parents or an authorized adult chaperone.
  • Children should never go into homes. Stay on the porch when asking for treats.
  • Children should avoid homes that don’t have their outside lights turned on.
  • Children should never talk to strangers or get into strangers’ cars.
  •   Children should bring home any treats before eating them so parents can inspect them. When children get home, parents should inspect all candy and other treats before they are eaten.
  • Discard all unwrapped or loosely wrapped candy or fruit.
  • Parents should cut into fruit, such as apples, to make sure they do not contain foreign objects.

Costumes

  • Wear bright, reflective clothing to be easily visible on streets and sidewalks.
  • Wear sneakers or comfortable walking shoes.
  • Avoid wearing floppy hats or wigs that can fall over the eyes.
  • If a child wears a face mask, ensure it does not obstruct vision.
  • Try to avoid toy weapons. If desired, use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid.
  • Avoid any unknown animals. They may easily become frightened.

Pedestrians

  • Children should stay within familiar areas and surroundings. Parents should establish a route for children.
  • Use flashlights and stay on sidewalks.
  • Cross the street at corners/crosswalks and not between parked cars.
  • Motorists should drive slowly and watch carefully for children.

(Note: Fort Jackson MPs will check candy for families as needed.)