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Police Stress Good Sense, Safety On Halloween
By Judy Smestad-Nunn
Unlike other communities in Ocean County, Toms River has three nights of Halloween celebrations due to the parade falling on October 31. Trick-or-treating takes place on October 30, and mischief night, the unofficial and frowned-up night of mischief, on October 29.
The Police Department will be increasing the number of cars on patrol, as will the Auxiliary Police, according to Safety Officer Thomas Leach. Police will even be patrolling some neighborhoods on bicycle during the holiday.
As safety officer, Leach helps to coordinate the Traffic Safety Bureau, which deals with all aspects of passenger and motor vehicle safety.
"The biggest concern is for parents to be alert to stranger danger, but really traffic issues should also be a big concern," Leach said. "Don't assume cars see you. There are so many kids with parents following them in cars, they're focused on their kids."
According to Leach, accidents are rare but there have been some injuries in the past.
"A few years ago, a driver was backing out of a driveway and hit a child. Luckily, the car was going at a slow speed and it was a minor injury, but with the sun setting earlier, visibility is getting worse with each day."
Leach recommends that children wear brightly colored costumes or use reflective material on their costume or the bag they're carrying. "There are lots of inexpensive light options. LED lights or flashlights are a good idea," he said.
"Avoid dark homes. People will light the house if they want to participate," he said. "Be considerate of others' property. Owners should turn the lights on to make the house look welcoming. Move or illuminate tripping hazards. And don't go into anyone's home, especially if you don't know them."
Toms River has no curfew for Halloween, but Leach said if juveniles are out after 5 p.m., they will be drawing attention to themselves and will be approached by police.
Leach said that Toms River has a zerotolerance policy for any vandalism on mischief night.
"If we catch someone, they're taken in to custody and we bring them to headquarters. They will be released to their parents or guardians. We want to make it a point that they shouldn't be out," he said.
Fire safety is a big concern to the police on Halloween. Leach said to avoid using candles to illuminate any decorations, and that even powerful lights can set vinyl siding or curtains on fire.
Finally, the officer said if you see any suspicious activity, call the Toms River Police Department at 732-349-0150.
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