Halloween Safety

As trick-or-treaters hit the streets throughout the next two days, Fairfax County offered a few safety tips Friday in its online chat.

Here are some highlights from the discussion with Officer Brendan Murphy. The full Q+A can be found here.

keri : Are there set hours for trick or treating and is Monday the official night for trick or treating (some places do trick or treating on weekend nights if holiday falls on weekday)?

Brendan Murphy : There are no set hours and as stated in a previous question we recommend until 8:30-9:00PM. Typically Halloween trick or treating occurs on the last day of October no matter which day of the week it falls on in Fairfax County

Paula : Any tips on how to keep from becoming a target for vandals? We turn our lights out when the candy is gone but this seems to be an invitation to tricksters.

Brendan Murphy : Once you turn your lights out, you may want to remove any items from display that could possibly become a target for theft/vandalism. Items like, pumpkins, inflatable decorations, etc. could be considered targets. All weekend consider being vigilant within your neighborhood... Thanks for watching out for your community

Anonymous User : Do you see any spike in crimes on Halloween with so many people walking around? Or is it the opposite -- with so many people, there's a drop in typical crime?

Brendan Murphy : Not typically but we always try to remain visible in the community to act as a deterrent to people considering mischevious behavior. A general rule would be to walk in groups of adults and kids to be more easily seen and less of a target for a crime.

Reston : Does anyone still egg houses on Halloween? I did once way back when. Just curious. ;-)

Brendan Murphy : Yes it does occur and not only on Halloween but the night before is sometimes considered mischief night. If there is damage to property please feel free to make a report. If it is an unsightly mess please clean it up and advise your neighbors to check their homes / cars for egg also.

Anonymous User : There's a lot of cut through traffic in my neighborhood and I've always been worried that someone speeding to get to 29 is going to hurt someone, especially on Halloween with kids around. Any advice?

Brendan Murphy : It is sometimes difficult to see out of a mask or costume while trick or treating. Walking in a group with adults who can be aware of the surroundings is always recommended. Also keeping the trick or treaters away from the roadside while walking not running, closer to the homes or front yards. Wearing something reflective to be seen is always a good practice. 

Residents who recognize an unsafe situation should call police at 703-691-2131.