The Lampasas law enforcement agencies provided safety tips for families and motorists in the hope that everyone has a safe Halloween night.
FAMILY SAFETY TIPS
Law enforcement officials note it’s wise for trick-or-treaters to have an adult present. They advise visiting homes that have porch lights on – the symbol of trick-or-treat participation.
Sheriff Jess Ramos told the Dispatch Record that sex offenders are mandated by law to keep lights off during Halloween and are not legally allowed to interact with trick-or-treaters.
Even so, authorities advise parents not to allow children to enter strangers’ homes, to complete trick-or-treating at nightfall, wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight.
TRAVEL SAFETY
Motorists should proceed with caution when traveling around trick-or-treating hot spots. Although most residential streets have a speed limit of 30 mph, 5 mph is a safer speed when trick-or-treaters are walking the streets.
For those planning to haul their children on trailers or hayrides, officials advised that at least one adult should sit with the children to ensure safety. And always exit the trailer from the tail, not at the hitch.
CANDY SAFETY
When children get their hands on the sugary Halloween treats, police officials encourage families to pay attention to what they have received. Parents should consider what kinds of goodies they allow children to consume and wait until they get home to do so. Candy that is individually wrapped and sealed is safer than treats that are not, police officials said.
TRICK-OR-TREAT ALTERNATIVES
Several events are offered in the Lampasas area for families who would like to opt out of traditional trick-or-treating.
Lampasas High School will host its annual Trunk-or-Treat on Halloween from 5-7 p.m. in the campus parking lot.
The annual Kempner Trunk-or-Treat will take place at City Hall tonight from 6-8 p.m. Families can enjoy games, photo booths, candy and other activities. Parking is available behind City Hall.
Also on Tuesday, Caraday of Lampasas will host a Trunk-or-Treat from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at 1000 E Avenue J. Candy donations are currently sought to help support this event.
Lily Springs Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center will host a Trick-or-Treat event on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. at 901 Central Texas Expressway. Costumes are encouraged and all ages are welcome. Call Pam Gutierrez at 512-556-8827 for more information.
St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church will host its annual Fall Festival on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Parrish Pavilion and Hall. The event will include food, drinks, games, music and a silent auction, with bidding that closes at 4 p.m. A raffle drawing will include $4,000 in prizes.
Proceeds from the event will benefit St. Mary Catholic Church.