That the message from Conewango Township Police Chief Jason Peters as local law enforcement offer tips to keep children safe as Halloween approaches.

Halloween safety breaks down into two distinct areas – trick or treating and treat safety.

Children are more likely to be struck by a motor vehicle on Halloween than any other time of the year,” Youngsville Borough Police Chief Todd Mineweaser said, “With so much foot traffic, motorists dropping and picking kids up and it’s celebrated in the evening under darkness.”

Peters agreed.

“Our agency has been called to (find) missing children during Halloween,” Mineweaser added. “Children with special needs can take off very quickly and blend in with crowds.”

Both agreed that parents should be at their child’s side while walking house-to-house or implement the buddy system.

“We’ve seen so many close calls with excited children running across the street to get the next treat and almost being struck by a car,” Peters said. “If you are driving in the neighborhood during trick or treat hours, go extra slow and watch for our kids.”

“Go to homes of people in town you know,” Mineweaser added. “With so many new synthetic drugs on the market parents have to be very cautious of what the children can have.”

Times Observer photos by Brian Ferry Kids participate in a Free Family Fun Night Halloween event at the Warren YMCA last Friday. Local law enforcement have offered several things to keep in mind to ensure Halloween activities are safe.

He raised the alarm about candies that contain THC or fentanyl, citing a story out of Rhode Island earlier this week where such snacks were seized. He highlighted that concern as a reason for residents to take advantage of this weekend’s Drug Take Back event.

“In our community most people know each other but we have a lot of kids coming to town from other jurisdictions,” he added.

“The treats themselves should be examined by parents (or) guardians before the kids eat it,” Peters said. “Look at the packaging and if it doesn’t seem right, throw it out. If it seems tampered with or altered, let law enforcement know.”

Expect an increased police and fire presence in neighborhoods during Trick or Treat hours, as well.

“Your police department and volunteer fire departments will be out in force to help keep our kids safe,” Peters said.