Halloween Safety Tips: Search for Sex Offenders in Your Neighborhood Before Trick-or-Treating

Parents preach all year long to not take candy from strangers — well, of course, unless it's Halloween. 

It's that time of the year for fun and fright, but there are some safety precautions to consider before taking those little ghosts, scarecrows and princesses out to trick-or-treat. 

Capt. Ed Hassing of the Lakewood Police Department said it's important to keep safety in mind on Halloween. Click here for the date and time for Trick or Treat this year. 

“Wear clothing that’s reflective, so people can see you,” he said. “Parents should stay with kids."

Other tips he offered include carrying a flashlight; staying in the neighborhood and only visiting homes you know; and only giving — or accepting — wrapped candy.

“It’s just being aware of where they’re going and who they’re going with," said Hassing. "It’s pretty basic.”

It's also important to know your surroundings. A list of registered sex offenders can be found on the Ohio Attorney General's office. There are dozens of people listed in Lakewood's 44107 zip code.

“If you know of (a sex offender), I’d avoid the house,” Hassing said. "If the parents don’t go with the kids, I’d know where they’re going and give them a time to come back to the house."

A searchable database with an interactive map is available at Familywatchdog.org.