Tips from Officer Goldsberry

Here are the notes from our last meeting:

Tips for Halloween:
- masks aren't a good idea. use face paint instead
- add something unique to your child's costume
- walk up to each house with your child
- use your instincts, if you are creeped out by a house/person avoid it!
- search the TBI website to see where the sex offenders are in your neighborhood, then avoid their house.
- have your child use flashlights or something reflective during the dark hours of trick or treating
- try to go trick or treating during the daylight hours if possible
- bring a cell phone and a flashlight of your own along with you.
- know where your kids are at all times
- look at all candy first before allowing your child to eat it
- if you won't be home- leave lights on with a bowl of candy out.  Then your house will be less of a target for any pranks.

General tips:
- teach your children YOUR first and last name, your address and phone number
- when shopping, carry your cell phone on your person, not in your purse.
- When shopping, be aware of your surroundings- walk with your head up and look around.
- have a code word for your family
- don't put names on shirts and backpacks
- teach your children to check with you before doing any activity that involves a stranger (ie- petting a dog, accepting candy, etc)
- talk to your kids about good/bad touches and good/bad kisses...it is no longer known as "stranger danger" because so many kids are hurt by those who are known to them and their parents.