Police Chief Jerry Whitmore and Mayor George Gaulrapp have announced the hours for trick or treating for Halloween this year. The suggested hours are 4:30 p.m. through 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2009. These hours are strictly advisory.

Chief Whitmore cautioned Freeport motorists to use special care on Halloween night, and to be on the look-out for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs, or darting out from between parked cars.

OPTIONAL:

The follow are some recommended safety tips drawing on National Safety Councils materials available on the internet:

•Plan and discuss the route your trick or treaters intend to follow. Instruct your children travel only in familiar areas and along an established route.

•Set a definite return time.

•Teach your children to stop only at houses or apartment buildings that are well lit; never enter a stranger’s home.

•Have your children trick or treat in a group if they do not need adult supervision.

•Walk on sidewalks; not on the street. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.

•If children are allowed out after dark, outfits should be made with light colored materials, preferably with strips of reflective tape on their costume for visibility.

•Pin a slip of paper with your child’s name, address and telephone number in case they get separated from you or their group.

•Knives, swords, and other accessories should be made from cardboard or flexible materials. Do not allow children to carry sharp objects.

•Carrying flashlights will allow children to see better and to be seen more clearly.

•Tell your youngsters not to eat any treats until they return home so that you can review their goodies.