BOULDER CITY – Halloween is a favorite for the kids – and the kid in each of us. Costumes and candy and the mad rush from house to house makes for great memories! Unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous nights of the year for kids. Boulder City’s first responders have some safety tips to make sure those memories are happy and safe for all.
Trick-or-treaters should always be alert while walking, use a flashlight, and visit only those homes with porch lights on. Children should not walk alone, and younger kids should be with an adult. Make sure costumes are bright colors or have reflective materials to make it easier to be seen at night.
Children tend to get excited and may run without looking for traffic. “Drivers should be extra alert and drive slowly in residential areas, especially if you see children nearby,” said Boulder City Police Chief Tim Shea. “Be aware of kids when pulling into or backing out of driveways, at intersections, on medians and curbs, and around corners. Stay focused and keep off your cell phone. We recommend children are Inside by 9:00 p.m. and residents turn off their porch lights.” Boulder City Police plan to have extra patrols on the roads October 31 starting before dusk.
This summer, Boulder City Council approved an ordinance that makes helmets mandatory for all minors on regular bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters. Fines for violations are civil traffic infractions and could cost $150.00 or more. Parents are financially responsible for tickets given to minors. More about the ordinance is available at www.bcnv.org/bikesafety. “Boulder City parents in need may still obtain free bike helmets* through the Fire Department,” said Fire Chief Kenneth Morgan. “Our paramedics have responded to some terrible injuries involving kids on e-scooters and e-bikes. We urge everyone to do whatever they can to keep our kids safe.”
Halloween is also a busy night for Animal Control for animals running at large. “Costumes frighten some pets and animals can be territorial around their home,” said City Manager Ned Thomas. “Children should be cautious about approaching pets, especially animals that they do not know. Pet parents should consider keeping them crated or on a leash as a safety precaution.”
Parents should inspect candy before giving it to their children. This is especially important for parents of children with food or nut allergies. Do not let kids eat candy that has been opened and be aware of choking hazards with some candies.
* Contact kcurreri@bcnv.org for information on free helmets.
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