JOLIET, Ill. — Halloween in Joliet is a magical time filled with costumes and candy, but the Joliet Police Department (JPD) emphasizes that safety should always come first. Through its “Tip Tuesday” initiative, the JPD has shared invaluable advice for both kids and parents.
Young trick-or-treaters are reminded to cross streets only at corners, never dart out between parked cars, and carry a flashlight or glow stick for visibility. It’s crucial they walk facing oncoming traffic when sidewalks are absent and always be cautious around cars, especially those that might be turning or backing out of driveways. As a golden rule, never venture into a stranger’s home.
Parents play an essential role in safety too. They should familiarize themselves with their children’s trick-or-treating route, ensure an adult accompanies the little ones, and set a clear time for their return home. Preparing homes for safe trick-or-treating is also key: clear walkways of potential hazards, ensure entrances are well-lit, and keep family pets at a distance. Emphasizing the difference between harmless pranks and vandalism is a crucial lesson, as is instructing kids to wait for a candy inspection upon returning home.
Costume safety ties everything together. JPD recommends flame-resistant costumes, masks, beards, and wigs. Visibility is crucial, so aim for light, bright, or reflective outfits. Makeup is often a safer alternative to masks, which can hinder vision. Oversized or high-heeled shoes can be tripping hazards, so they’re best avoided. And in the event of any mishaps, having the child’s identification details on their trick-or-treat bags can be a lifesaver.
For an exhaustive list of Halloween safety recommendations, residents are encouraged to visit the official Joliet Halloween Safety Guide.
