Official trick-or-treat night and Halloween safety in Manassas

Monday, Oct. 31, 2011 from 6 to 9 p.m. is the official City of Manassas Trick-Or-Treat time for this year’s Halloween events, according to Col. Douglas Keen, Manassas Chief of Police.

Manassas City Police advise all children to end their door-to-door activities by 9 p.m. Monday night. Little goblins and their parents are asked to follow these safety tips when Trick-Or-Treating.
• NEVER eat any candy or treats until an adult inspects them at home. Only eat candy in factory sealed containers or wrappers. If in doubt, throw it away.
• Parents, always accompany younger children.
• Carry and use a flashlight and watch for traffic. Stay on sidewalks.
• Carry a cellular telephone.
• Costumes should be light colored, or have reflective strips. Make sure costumes are not too long, or a hazard to safe walking.
• Use makeup instead of masks. If wearing a mask, make sure the child can see clearly without obstruction.
• Stay away from dogs, even if you know them; costumes can frighten even friendly dogs.
• Stay in your neighborhood, only visit houses that are lit and that you are familiar with.

Manassas Police remind Halloween revelers that pumpkin smashing, toilet papering and other harmless pranks are acts of vandalism and are Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $2,500 fine. Ringing doorbells and running away could be considered trespassing, also a criminal offense.

Chief Keen was quoted as saying, “Halloween can be a fun and enjoyable time for youngsters. Parents are strongly urged to be safety conscious.” City police officers will be patrolling neighborhoods to help kids keep safe but attentive parents are our best protection.”