MNOA Community Resources: Keep Your Family & Community Safe During Halloween

Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for families and communities across Missouri. Kids fill the streets in costumes, neighbors decorate their homes, and families gather to celebrate safely. The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association reminds everyone that while Halloween should be full of fun, it’s also important to stay alert and take precautions to keep everyone safe.

Here are some essential Halloween safety tips the MNOA recommends you follow to help protect your family and community this Fall.

• Inspect All Treats Before Eating: It’s always a good idea to check candy and treats before allowing children to eat them. Look for signs of tampering, such as torn packaging, unusual shapes, or unfamiliar brands. Only accept and eat factory-sealed candies and treats. When in doubt, throw it out.
• Choosing the Right Costumes for You and Your Family: If you and your family plan to walk around the neighborhood this holiday, consider wearing bright and reflective costumes and accessories. Avoid wearing masks that can limit your vision and ensure your costumes fit properly to prevent trips and falls. It’s always a good idea to carry a flashlight or a glow stick to increase visibility.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings and Stay in Well-Lit, Familiar Areas: During Halloween, we encourage those who celebrate to stick to neighborhoods they know and trust. Always use sidewalks, crosswalks, and look both ways before crossing. It’s imperative to remind children never to enter a stranger’s home or vehicle. Groups of young trick-or-treaters should travel together with adult supervision, and a trusted adult should always accompany younger children.
• Staying Alert and Cautious While Driving on Halloween: Halloween night can be busy on the roads, especially in and around residential areas. Please be sure to slow down, stay off your phone, and watch carefully for children and families crossing the street. If you’re planning on hosting a Halloween party where alcohol will be consumed, plan for designated drivers and discourage impaired driving.
• Report any Suspicious Activity to Local Law Enforcement: MNOA encourages everyone to stay aware and speak up. If you see anything unusual or suspicious, such as unsafe candy, reckless driving, or questionable substances contact your local law enforcement agency immediately.
• Talk to Your Kids About Safety During Halloween: Before heading out, talk with your children. Review the basic safety rules and explain why it’s essential to stay with the group, always inspect candy, watch for cars, and never enter a stranger’s car or home. Empowering your kids with knowledge will help them make safer decisions.

MNOA Is Committed to Safer Missouri Communities

The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association is dedicated to supporting Missouri’s law enforcement professionals and educating the public about drug awareness, prevention, and community safety. Through training, outreach, and collaboration, MNOA works year-round to help make Missouri neighborhoods safer for everyone. This Halloween, enjoy the festivities while staying alert and responsible. Together, we can make this holiday safe, memorable, and fun for families across Missouri.

Stay Safe. Stay Aware. Protect Your Community.

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