Halloween Safety Reminders

Buffalo, NY - With Halloween night approaching, Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon and Buffalo Police Commissioner Alphonso Wright are reminding residents to celebrate responsibly and keep safety top of mind while enjoying the evening's festivities.

"Our message is simple: have fun, but have fun safely," said Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon. "Halloween is a special night for our neighborhoods - a time for families, costumes, and community fun. But it's also a night that requires everyone's attention and care. Whether you're walking door-to-door with your kids or behind the wheel, stay alert, take your time, and look out for one another."

Police Commissioner Alphonso Wright added, "The Buffalo Police Department will have additional patrols throughout the city on Halloween to help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable night. Drivers should slow down and stay alert for children crossing streets, while parents can help by making sure kids wear bright or reflective costumes and carry flashlights. These small steps make a big difference in keeping our streets safe."

The City of Buffalo's recommended trick-or-treating hours are 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Below are several key Halloween safety reminders from the City of Buffalo and the Buffalo Police Department:

Trick-or-Treating Safety

• A responsible adult should accompany young children while trick-or-treating.
• If older children are going out alone, plan and review a safe, familiar route ahead of time.
• Be visible - wear bright or reflective costumes and carry a flashlight or glow sticks.
• Only visit homes with porch lights on and never enter a stranger's house.
• Inspect all treats before eating them; discard anything unwrapped or suspicious.

Neighborhood & Home Safety

• Work with your block club or neighbors to form "Neighborhood Watch Teams."
• Call 911 if you notice suspicious activity or unsafe behavior.
• If you're not participating in trick-or-treating, keep your porch light off but leave indoor lights on to deter mischief.

Motorist Safety

• Be extra alert for children walking on roadways, medians, and curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways carefully.
• Drive slowly in residential areas, especially between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
• Discourage inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween night.

To mark the occasion, the top of Buffalo City Hall will be lit orange on Friday, October 31st, in recognition of Halloween and Halloween Safety Month.