Mt. Juliet police will put four times the usual number of officers on patrol Saturday, Oct. 31, as thousands of trick-or-treaters fill neighborhood streets.
Officers will hand out candy and LED safety lights to children throughout the evening, according to the Mt. Juliet Police Department. The lights are meant to help kids stay visible to drivers after dark.
The department recommends trick-or-treating between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Pedestrian safety is the department's top concern. On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year, according to Safe Kids Worldwide.
"We want everyone to have a great night, and our officers will be out strong to help make that happen," Police Chief Tyler Chandler said in the department's announcement. "But keeping children safe takes all of us. Please slow down, watch for children and look out for one another."
The department urged parents to outfit costumes with reflective materials, flashlights or other lighting. Children should cross streets at intersections and avoid walking between parked cars, the department said. Safe Kids Worldwide also recommends choosing face paint over masks, since masks can limit a child's vision.
Drivers should use extra caution in residential areas. Children can be unpredictable, especially when excited or distracted by costumes and decorations, the department said. Officers will watch for unsafe driving, illegal activity and other behavior that could threaten trick-or-treaters.
The department also flagged parking as a concern. Residents and visitors should avoid blocking roadways, driveways or emergency vehicle access. Officers will monitor parking conditions in neighborhoods throughout the night.
With electric scooters and e-bikes growing more popular, the department encouraged parents to talk with children about safe operation and traffic laws. Safe Kids Worldwide recommends that an adult accompany children under 12 while trick-or-treating.
Anyone who sees reckless driving, dangerous behavior or suspicious activity can report it to MJPD's non-emergency line at 615-754-2550. For emergencies, call 911.
