The West Fargo Police Department wants to make sure you and yours enjoy this fun holiday as safely as possible, which is why we offer a list of trick-or-treating tips:

Treat Safety:

• Warn children not to eat any treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering.
• Closely inspect any treats before anyone eats them. 
• Cut up and wash fruit to make sure it is safe.
• If you suspect that candy may be tainted, please contact the West Fargo Police Department at 701-515-5500.

Costume Safety:

• Purchase or make costumes that are light and bright enough to be clearly visible to motorists.
• Costumes should be short enough to prevent children from tripping and falling.
• Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes. 
• Hats and scarves should be tied securely to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.
• If children go out after dark, make sure they wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight.

Pedestrian Safety:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult or an older, responsible child.
• Remind children to walk, not run from house to house. 
• Stay on the sidewalks, not streets, and avoid backyards, shortcuts and alleys.
• Children should be cautioned against running out from between parked cars.
• Remind children to stay with their group.
• Give your children a curfew and have them tell you what route they will be taking. 

Choosing Safe Houses:

• Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome
• Children should not enter homes or apartments unless they are accompanied by an adult
• Residents expecting trick-or-treaters should remove anything that could be an obstacle from lawns, steps and porches. 
• Candlelit jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes could brush against the flame. 
• Indoor jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from curtains, decorations, and other furnishings that could be ignited.

More Information

• Read a Halloween Safety Guide (PDF)