10/31/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/31/2025 08:48
      Trick-or-treating will be observed in Sioux City on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
      The Sioux City Police Department suggests the following safety tips for a safe and fun Halloween.
      
       For Parents and Trick-or-Treaters:
      • Halloween costumes should be made of fire-retardant material, well-fitting so that walking is not interfered with, and the eye holes should be large enough for good peripheral vision.
      • Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them.
      • A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
      • If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
      • Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
      • Before allowing your children to eat any of the treats, examine them to be sure they are safe to eat.
      • Stay in a group and communicate where you will be going.
      • Carry a cell phone for quick communication.
      • Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.
      • If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
      • Never cut across yards or use alleys.
      • Only cross the street as a group at established crosswalks. Never cross between parked cars or out of driveways.
      • Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!
      • Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
      For homeowners:
      • Make sure your yard is clear of such things as ladders, hoses, flowerpots, pet leashes, etc.
      • Keep sidewalks, driveways, and yards free of trip hazards.
      • Light walkways and paths kids may take.
      • Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns.
      • Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.
      • Remember to keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes. Make sure all smoke alarms are working.
    
      For Motorists:
      • Be alert for trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Slow down and continue to scan the road in areas where they are likely to be or where sight distances are limited.
      • On Halloween there will likely be more pedestrians on the roads and in places where they are not expected. Slower speeds save lives.
      • Stay alert for pedestrians who may come out from between parked cars or behind shrubbery. Stop, wait for them to pass.
      • Don't look at your phone when you're driving. Your attention needs to always be on the road.
      • Pull over to the side of the road to let passengers out.