Police give tips for a safe holiday

Kurt Bottorff wants children and their parents to enjoy their Halloween trick-or-treating experience.

But Bottorff also wants them to be safe.

“Be safe and be seen so you’re not sorry,” said Bottorff, a lieutenant with the Fremont Police Department.

Bottorff offered a number of safety tips for those who will be out scaring up treats tonight.

He said children should wear flame-resistant costumes and recommends that parents put some sort of identification -- such as their child’s name on a tag -- in the costume.

Bottorff also advised people in costumes to make sure that their face is clear and to avoid walking with pointed objects.

Bottorff said young children should go trick-or-treating with parents or friends.

“Never trick-or-treat alone,” he said. “Go in groups.”

Parents whose children are old enough to go without them should know what time their youngsters are leaving and set a time that they are expected home, Bottorff said.

He also said that parents should walk the trick-or-treating route with their children beforehand to make sure the children are comfortable.

For people that will be driving tonight, Bottorff recommended avoiding residential areas that will be filled with trick-or-treaters.

If that’s not an option, Bottorff encouraged safe driving habits, including making sure that windows are clean and clear of obstructions and avoiding distractions such as riding with pets or using cell phones.

“Pay very close attention to your surroundings,” Bottorff said. “Slow your vehicle way down ... and always watch for kids darting out in front of you.”