Aggrostats

News Release – October 29, 2010

Bossier City- This Halloween, children from all over will take to the streets and neighborhoods for a fun filled night of trick-or-treating. With that in mind, Louisiana State Police Troop G wants to remind all drivers, pedestrians, and trick-or-treaters to make the common sense decision and keep safety as a high propriety. In doing so, everyone can make the most of this Halloween weekend by keeping it as enjoyable for the kids as it is for the adults.

Drivers traveling on Louisiana roadways should remember that many communities will be participating in Halloween activates this weekend. Drivers who may travel through such communities should remember to slow down below the posted speed limit where necessary, limit distractions, and watch for vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Nothing would be more devastating than to rob a kid and their parents of such a night that was so eagerly prepared for all because a motorist made the wrong decision to not exercise due regard for public safety.

This weekend, Troopers will be looking for motorists who are not buckled up, driving in an aggressive manner and operating their vehicle while impaired. Remember to make the mature decision by designating a driver who is not impaired if you are going to drink this Halloween weekend.

Troop G would like to offer a few safety tips for those parents who may be accompanying their children during trick-or-treating this weekend:

Visibility is very important with regard to being seen by motorists.

Avoid dark clothing, wear reflective clothing, and use lights, reflective tape and/or glow sticks.

Sidewalks are always the best option for Trick-or-Treaters when available.

Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome.

Pedestrians should walk facing traffic and only cross at marked cross walks or at intersections.

Motorist need to drive with extreme caution around Trick-or-Treaters.

Citizens are asked to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.

Parents who are concerned and unsure of where to find accurate information regarding the presence of sex offenders and predators in their neighborhoods can visit the Louisiana Sex Offender and Child Predator Registry on line by going to:

http://www.lsp.org/socpr/default.html

Citizens are encouraged to review the list of registered sex offenders living within a 0.25-2 mile radius of their address. Under current State Law, it is illegal for a registered sex offender to participate in Halloween Trick-or-Treat activities. If you become aware of a sex offender who is attending costume parties where children are present or giving out candy, notify your local law enforcement immediately.

Contact Information:
Tpr. Cordell Williams
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Unit
Office: (318) 741-7411
Cell: (318) 617-0638
cordell.williams@dps.la.gov