Police recommend 'trick or treating' between hours of 6 and 8:30 p.m.

The Laconia Police Department is recommending that ‘Trick or Treating’ on Monday October 31st, Halloween, be conducted between 6:00 and 8:30 p.m. The Department further recommends that parents and children exercise good judgment in setting reasonable time limits and choosing locations that are appropriate and safe.

The police department will have extra patrols out in cars on bicycles and on foot and encourages children, parents and motorists to use extra caution on this evening. Listed below are a few safety tips for parents and children.

Halloween Tips for Children

Carry a flashlight

Walk, don't run.

Stay on Sidewalks

Obey traffic signals

Stay in familiar neighborhoods

Don't cut across yards or driveways.

Wear a watch you can read in the dark.

Make sure costumes don't drag on the ground.

Shoes should fit (even if they don't go with your costume)

Avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house.

Carry only flexible knives, swords or other props.

(If no sidewalk) walk on the left side of the road facing traffic

Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape.

Approach only houses that are lit.

Stay away from and don't pet animals you don't know.

Tips for parents

Make your child eat dinner before setting out.

Children should carry change or a cell phone so they can call home.

Ideally, young children of any age should be accompanied by an adult.

If your children go on their own, be sure they wear a watch, preferably one that can be read in the dark.

If you buy a costume, look for one made of flame-retardant material.

Older children should know where to reach you and when to be home. Youshould know where they're going.

Although tampering is rare, tell children to bring the candy home to be inspected before consuming anything. Look at the wrapping carefully and toss out anything that looks suspect.