HPD to heavily monitor Halloween night activities

The Hazlehurst Police Department will be doing its part to ensure a spooky and safe celebration of Halloween for area families. Trick-or-treating will be this Thursday night from first dark to 8:30, after the city moved it from Friday to Thursday at the October board meeting.

“We will be out in full force on Thursday night. All residents are asked to turn on your outside lights if you plan to participate in trick-or-treating,” continued Chief Swilley.

Common sense, Swilley said, goes a long way to ensuring the safest Halloween possible.
“We will use our discretion in regards to the city’s 7 p.m. curfew. We are asking parents to chaperon all children under the age of 15. Please check the traffic both ways when crossing the street. We want to encourage parents to dress their children in light colored costumes when possible and to wear light colors themselves. Also, don’t let their children eat the candy until they get home and have a chance to check and make sure the candy is safe,” Swilley said.

Swilley also warned against egging homes and rolling yards or other property. “We will be on the lookout for this type of activity. Anyone who is caught will be charged,” he added.

The chief also urged business owners to beware of suspicious activity. “We are asking people not to wear mask in their cars or into businesses. I want to remind merchants to be on the guard. If business operators catch anyone entering their establishment wearing a mask, please call 911 to report it.”