Full Notification

Halloween is almost here! Although we hope that Halloween will be a safe and fun evening, the unfortunate reality is that, every year, many children suffer from automobile accidents, falls, cuts, tampered “treats”, and other unnecessary miseries.  The Newport Beach Police Department would like to share the following tips with parents – and Trick-or-Treaters of all ages:

Know Your Child’s Plans
If you will not be with your child, these items are important to discuss in advance:

• Establish a specific route for trick-or-treating (so that you can find your child, if necessary).
• Discuss who will be accompanying your child while he/she is trick-or-treating.
• Establish a time that your child should return home.

• Makeup is safer than a costume mask (which can obscure vision).
• Costumes and wigs should be flame-resistant.
• Reflective strips, bright clothing & glow sticks can increase visibility, along with a flashlight.
• Comfortable, well-fitting shoes prevent tripping and other hazards.
• Props and accessories should be made of cardboard, so they won’t injure your child if he/she should fall down.

• Trick-or-Treat in your own neighborhood.
• Trick-or-Treat in a group of two or more, accompanied by a parent or adult.
• Stick to well-lighted areas.
• Stay on sidewalks and look both ways when crossing the street.  Never cross the street between parked cars or mid-block.
• Don’t allow your child to enter ANY house.
• Parents must inspect all treats. Discard fruit or any candy in loose or torn wrappings.

• Discuss the importance of respecting the property of others.
• Advise your child that throwing eggs and water balloons, or spraying shaving cream, is inappropriate and could be illegal.
• Curfew in Newport Beach is 10:00 p.m.
• All fireworks are illegal in Newport Beach.

• Be on alert for pedestrians (especially children darting into the street) and yield to them at all crosswalks.
• If you are driving kids around, make sure children’s car seats & safety belts are securely buckled each time they get in the car. This may mean they need to change into their costume after exiting the vehicle if their costume hinders you from properly securing their car seat harness or safety belt.
• Slow down in & around residential areas.
• Be extra cautious when backing out of parking spots. If needed, have an adult outside the vehicle guide you out of the space & make sure the area is clear. 
• Avoid distracted driving – wait to use your cell phone until you have pulled over to a safe location.
• If your Halloween plans include drinking, designate a non-drinking driver before going out.