Halloween Safety Tips
From the Wixom Police Department


BEFORE HALLOWEEN:

• Pan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.
• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
• Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives.
• When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, look for and purchase only those with a label clearly indicating they are flame resistant.
• Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords.  If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic                                      and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.
• Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.
• This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.
• Teach children to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free at any payphone.
• Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.
• Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.
• Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home.
• Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.
• Learn or review CPR.
• Consider safe party guidelines when hosting an Adult or Office Party.

FUN ALTERNATIVES:

• Ask around your community and check your local newspaper for information on special events.
• Community Centers, Shopping Malls and Houses of Worship often have organized festivities.
• Share the fun by arranging a visit to a Retirement Home or Senior Center.
• Create an alliance with College Fraternities, Sororities or Service Clubs for children's face painting or a carnival.

BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN:

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
• Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects.
• Always keep Jack O' Lanterns and hot electric lamps away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children will be standing or walking.
• Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.
• Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry coins for non-emergency phone calls.
• Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.
• Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.
• Adult partygoers should establish a designated driver.

WHEN TRICK-OR-TREATING:

• A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• Remind Trick-or Treaters:
  • By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.
  • Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
  • Only go to homes with a porch light on.
  • Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
  • If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.
  • Never cut across yards or use alleys.
  • Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.
  • Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.
  • Always walk. Never run across a street.
  • Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).
  • Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.
  • Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
  • Never consume food items or drinks that may be offered.
  • No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home.
• Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING:

• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.
• Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.
• Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.

Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!
From the
Wixom Police Department
49045 Pontiac Trail
Wixom, MI 48393
(248) 624-6114

If you would like you contact information added to the Wildwood Directory please click here.  You will receive a password to access the directory.

Walled Lake Consolidated schools will be back in session on Tuesday, September 6th. Here are a few safety reminders:

1. Slow Down Whether in a school zone or residential neighborhood, motorists should keep their speeds low and obey all traffic laws. 

2. Scan Between Parked Cars. Children can dart out between parked cars or other objects along the road. Be aware and prepared to stop quickly, if needed.

3. Always Stop for Buses. Flashing yellow lights on a school bus indicate it is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop. Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate the bus has stopped, and children are getting on and off. Motorists are required to stop their vehicles and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is withdrawn and the bus begins moving before they can start driving again.

4. Allot Extra Travel Time. Back to school often means increased congestion and longer commute times. Motorists should allot extra travel time when school is in session to avoid any temptation to speed or disobey traffic laws.

5. Use Extra Caution in Bad Weather. Motorists should use extra caution in inclement weather. Reduced visibility can make it difficult for motorists to see children and children to see vehicles. It can also be difficult to stop quickly, if needed. 

Wishing you a Happy & Safe start to the new school year!

CITY OF WIXOM NEW EVENT: HOT BLUES & BBQ
When:  Thurs. July 14
Time:    5-10 pm
Where: Sibley Square Park , 48900 Pontiac Trail (Across from City Offices)

Featuring: 2 Bands, Smoking BBQ, Kids Carnival Rides, Climbing Tower, Tons of Trucks, Beer & Wine Tent and more. Sponsored by Genisys Credit Union.

WIXOM FALL YOUTH SOCCER- DEADLINE TO REGISTER JULY 25
When:                           Fall Season starts Sept. 10
Who:                             Ages 3-12

Don’t miss out!  Stay local and play soccer in Wixom Parks. Easy to register: online, phone 248-624-2850, fax 248-624-3090 or walk in Parks & Rec. Office. Registration Form is attached. Click here for web soccer page. Sponsored by, Backyard Coney Island.

Linda Hinkley
City of Wixom Parks & Recreation
49045 Pontiac Trail
Wixom, MI 48393
Phone:         248-624-2850
Fax:             248-624-3090
Email:          Lhinkley@wixomgov.org
Web Site:     www.wixomgov.org

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs. 7:15 am - 5:30 pm