Halloween safety: Protecting kids from offenders, suspicious candy, traffic in Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Anticipation is building for children across the state and country as Halloween approaches, but crime and safety experts are warning parents to stay vigilant to keep their kids safe from potential harm while collecting candy.

Soon, local neighborhoods will be filled with little ghosts and goblins, maybe a witch or two, but before you take your children door to door for a sweet treat, it’s important to be aware of who may be behind the front door.

In Fayette County alone, there are more than 550 registered sex offenders.

“On Halloween, kids are going to be out. And unfortunately, some of those people may be hoping that their kids are unsupervised.”

In some states across the country, there are laws that enforce restrictions for registered sex offenders on Halloween night. But in Kentucky, there aren’t any specific guidelines, which is why Officer Don Evans said parents should stay in close contact with their children while trick-or-treating.

“Sex offenders, even though, they are sometimes limited on where they can live, and they have probation officers and things of that nature, they don’t have to put a sign on their house,” said Evans. “So, as a parent, you should be diligent and understand that, you know, stranger danger is a real thing.”

He said it can be helpful to map out a safe route ahead of time, checking offender registries such as the one provided by state police to avoid potential danger.

And while it can be exciting to collect bags or even buckets full of candy, Evans explained, children shouldn’t eat it right away so parents can inspect it.

“Make sure they don’t do that because we want to make sure adults look at it, make sure it’s not tampered with.”

Though unsafe candy raises concerns, experts say child pedestrian injuries are a greater risk.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, child pedestrian accidents are more likely on Halloween than on any other night of the year. Evans said costumes are sometimes to blame.

“If they’re not wearing reflective clothes, if they have a mask, that’s not a good idea. It’s better to use face paint. They don’t want to do anything to restrict the kid’s visibility,” he said. “And if you do have a really cute costume, make sure that you’re holding their hand when you cross the street.”

To learn where sex offenders live in your area, click here.