Bibb County Sheriff’s Office announces Halloween trick-or-treating hours, safety tips

Sheriff David Davis and the Bibb County Sheriff's Office are also reminding families to take precautions to keep children safe while celebrating.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office has announced recommended trick-or-treating hours for Halloween in Macon-Bibb County.

Halloween will be observed Saturday, October 31, with recommended trick-or-treating hours from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Sheriff David Davis and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office are also reminding families to take precautions to keep children safe while celebrating.

Halloween costume safety

The sheriff’s office encourages parents to choose costumes that are easily visible to motorists and allow children to walk safely.

Costumes with long, trailing fabric should be avoided because they can create tripping or fire hazards. Masks should fit properly and provide clear visibility. Face makeup is another option.

Trick-or-treating safety tips

The sheriff’s office recommends that children trick-or-treat in groups and that younger children always be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

Families are encouraged to plan their routes ahead of time, stick to well-lit streets and establish a return time.

Additional recommendations include:

• Carry flashlights or glow sticks and use reflective tape on costumes to increase visibility.

• Cross streets at corners rather than between parked vehicles or in the middle of a block.

• Look left, right and left again before crossing streets.

• Walk facing traffic and stay as far left as possible when sidewalks are unavailable.

• Wait until returning home to inspect candy before eating it.

• Throw away treats that are not commercially wrapped and sealed.

• Report suspicious treats to parents and local law enforcement.

Halloween driving safety

Drivers are also urged to use extra caution in residential neighborhoods where children may be walking or crossing streets.

The sheriff’s office recommends slowing down, watching for pedestrians at intersections and along curbs, and eliminating distractions while driving.

Alternative Halloween activities

The sheriff’s office also suggests organized Halloween parties as an alternative to traditional trick-or-treating.

Parents whose children attend parties at other homes are encouraged to remind them to identify exits in case of an emergency.

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to follow these safety recommendations while celebrating Halloween on October 31.