With Halloween fast approaching, St. John Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre wants to assure residents that the St. John Sheriff’s Office will do its part once again to ensure a safe and fun holiday for families.
First, Sheriff Tregre advises residents to adhere to the CDC’s guidelines in reference to trick-or-treating in areas where COVID-19 cases are lower and residents plan to participate, like in St. John Parish. Standard guidance of social distancing, washing hands often, using hand sanitizer, and wearing a mask is still recommended, as well as not participating, if you are sick. If families plan to host a small gathering, the CDC recommends keeping guests outdoors as much as possible, weather permitting.
Families also may want to consider alternative activities to trick-or-treating such as pumpkin carving and decorating, hosting virtual costume contests, organizing a scavenger hunt for candy for your kids, and watching scary movies at home.
Sheriff Tregre said officers will patrol as normal during the peak hours of trick-or-treating, from about 5 to 8 p.m. on Halloween, Saturday, October 31, 2020. Deputies will patrol in neighborhoods with emergency lights activated to remind motorists to drive slowly and exercise caution for those families who do decide to trick-or-treat. Motorists should keep travel to a minimum on Halloween due to the possible high number of pedestrians on neighborhood streets. In addition to families taking COVID-19 precautions,
Sheriff Tregre reminds parents of the usual Halloween safety tips:
— Be aware of your surroundings by staying off your phone unless making a call, especially while supervising children.
— Make your child’s costume distinguishable and safe by using glow bracelets/sticks, reflective tape, lights or other items.
— Inspect all treats collected and discard anything that is not sealed.
— Remind children to walk and don’t run on sidewalks or near the edge of the roadway.
— Remind children to stay in front of residences giving out candy and never enter a residence.
— Have a plan in case you and your child get separated.
If residents plan to distribute candy, please turn on your lights so your property is well-lit.