Children will hit the streets for beggar’s night Thursday in Newton, but before they do, the city police department wants to ensure it’s a safe and successful evening.
Newton Police Chief Jeff Hoebelheinrich said, if possible, costumes should have a reflective quality to keep children visible when it starts to get dark. Also, carrying a flashlight or wearing glow jewelry is a great way to get attention. Keep the costume short enough so the child can walk and will not be tripping or dragging on the ground. When the costume allows, use face paint instead of masks.
“A lot of masks block a lot of the vision, it can be really hard for kids to see when they are crossing the street,” Hoebelheinrich said.
If the costume has accessories, they should be made out of light, flexible materials to avoid injury.
Meanwhile, parents should keep other safety at the forefront of their minds as well.
“Kids should basically stay in their own neighborhood, just for the fact that they know who their neighbors are,” Hoebelheinrich said.
Parents or adults should walk with their youngest children or have an older child stay with them. If children are unaccompanied, plan a route for them to take. When crossing streets, be sure to only do so at the corners and do not hide or cross between parked cars.
Children should also be reminded never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle and should be cautious around any animals. To get from house to house, advise children to use the sidewalk instead of crossing through the yard to avoid tripping hazards, he said. Also, only visit houses that have a porch light on.
Although it may be tempting, parents should not let children eat any treats before an adult has looked through them. If any of the candy is opened or looks suspicious, throw it out.
Hoebelheinrich asked that those who don’t need to be out avoid any travel during the hours kids will be out. Otherwise, take extra caution and drive slowly through residential areas. Pay extra attention at intersections and near crosswalks and consider turning on the headlights before it gets dark.
Beggar’s night is from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Newton.
Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641- 792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com.