Halloween Safety Tips from Murfreesboro Officials

Murfreesboro officials share safety tips for a secure Halloween celebration.

As Halloween approaches, the Murfreesboro Police Department (MPD) and Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department (MFRD) are taking measures to ensure a safe holiday for all residents. With increased patrols on October 31, MPD officers will monitor neighborhoods for speeders, reckless, and impaired drivers. MPD Chief Michael Bowe emphasizes the importance of safety precautions for a fun and secure celebration.

MFRD will also be present at community Halloween events, with Fire Chief Mark McCluskey advising residents on fire safety, particularly when carving pumpkins. He recommends using battery-operated candles or glowsticks instead of lighted candles to prevent fire hazards.

General safety tips include accompanying children during trick-or-treating, providing flashlights or glow sticks, and instructing children to avoid entering unfamiliar homes or cars. Children should also be taught to stop, drop, and roll in case of clothing catching fire.

For costumes, it is advised to avoid long trailing fabrics to prevent tripping and to use bright or reflective materials for visibility. Toy firearms should have an orange tip for safety.

When it comes to candy, only wrapped or packaged treats should be accepted, ideally from known individuals. Parents are encouraged to inspect all treats before consumption, and feeding children before trick-or-treating may reduce the temptation to eat uninspected candy.

Decorations should be kept away from open flames and heat sources, using flashlights instead of candles for exterior lighting. Ensuring clear exits in case of emergency is also crucial.

For more tips, residents are encouraged to watch the Halloween Trick-or-Treat Safety Tips video available here.

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Mobile Hazardous Waste Collection in Rutherford County

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) will conduct a mobile household hazardous waste collection event in Rutherford County on November 2, allowing residents to dispose of hazardous items like cleaning fluids and pesticides at the Murfreesboro Solid Waste Department without cost or appointment.