Ghouls, ghosts and goblins will fill the streets of Newton County Monday night as residents embark on Halloween festivities throughout the county. Local emergency services are encouraging residents to keep a guard up this Halloween.

Allan Seabaran, of the Covington Police Department, encourages parents to make sure to keep a close watch on their children and not to leave them unattended during trick-or-treating or any other holiday outing.

“I would be wary about taking candy from strangers other than the houses they go to or any candy that looks like it has been tampered with,” he said. 

Seabaran also urged residents to steer clear of dressing up in a clown costume this Halloween, as to not be mistaken as someone involved in unlawful activity. Clown-related crimes, including robberies and children predators, have been reported throughout the country since August.

As another tip, before leaving your home to knock on doors and ask for candy, Seabaran encourages residents to double-check their home is properly secured and all doors and windows are locked. 

Covington Fire Department Deputy Chief Tony Smith suggests citizens utilize the “SAFE HALLOWEEN” acronym while participating in Halloween festivities Monday evening.

“The Covington Fire Department hopes that everyone has a safe Halloween and fall season,” he said.

Before lighting the candle inside a jack-o-lantern, Newton County Fire Service Lieutenant Cydnie Taylor-Ridling said the department is urging residents to check the smoke alarms in their homes and prepare a fire escape plan due to the recent home fire fatalities in the state.

If you need help with installation of home smoke alarms or fire escape plans, call NCFS at 678-625-5010. 

S   Swords, knives and small similar costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.

A    Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

F  Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

E   Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them.

H   Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Always walk and don’t run from house to house.

A  Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

L   Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.

L  Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

O  Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.

E  Eat only factory wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.

E  Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit homes and never accept rides from strangers.

N  Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame resistant costumes.

-Covington Fire Department Deputy Chief Tony Smith