Essex Fells Police Chief Vincent Kulik Reminds the Community About Halloween Safety

by Carolyne Volpe Curley / Carolyne@WestEssexNOW.com
Published 6:21pm

WEST ESSEX, NJ - With so much activity happening between the dusk and evening hours of Halloween and as groups of people navigate the terrain in unfamiliar costumes, Halloween can present some challenges and safety concerns for all involved. Essex Fells Police Chief Vincent A. Kulik reports that, due to an increase in property damage in past years which included egg throwing, paintballs and rock throwing, area police will not tolerate acts of criminal mischief and will take appropriate action against offenders.

On "Mischief Night," as well as on Halloween, the Essex Fells Police Department will have additional officers patrolling in marked and unmarked vehicles, and on motorcycle along with bicycle patrols. The agency has a “no tolerance policy” in place for dealing with any criminal mischief and asks that motorists be sure to take extra precautions around pedestrians and while driving through neighborhoods. Residents should be especially watchful for any signs of mischief or criminal activity on Thursday and Friday evenings and contact the police immediately to report anything remotely suspicious. 

"While the holiday can be a fun time for many families,
it can also be a dangerous time as well," commented Kulik.
"Children have a tendency to become very excitable during
the trick or treat activities and may inadvertently
get themselves into harm’s way in our neighborhoods."

The Essex Fells Police have put together a list of helpful reminders so that everyone, including motorists, can enjoy the holiday safely:

• Parents should openly discuss with their children what activities are considered appropriate and inappropriate in their neighborhoods  
  
  
• Costumes should have something attached to them which is bright and reflective; parents should consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and treat bags for greater visibility
  
  
• Parents should make sure that their children's shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or any contact with flame
  
  
• Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, parents should consider using a non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative
  
  
• Children and their escorts should carry flashlights with fresh batteries for all
  
  
• Homeowners should remember to take extra effort to eliminate any tripping hazards visitors may find on the porch and walkway

The Police Department wishes everyone
a happy and safe Halloween," Kulik added.
"Be assured that we will work diligently to prevent or address any issues
in an effort to keep everyone safe and to protect property.
The support and cooperation of parents
is a key component to making the evenings safe."

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