Texas Department of Public Safety issues Halloween safety guidance

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has launched its ‘Keeping Texas Families Safe’ initiative to provide safety guidance for the Halloween season. Homeland Security Division Chief Gerald Brown emphasized that safety begins with awareness and proactive preparation.

Key recommendations from the DPS include:

• Drug Awareness: Parents are urged to inspect candy for drugs, specifically noting the extreme danger of fentanyl, where as little as 2 milligrams can be fatal.

• Firearm Safety: Due to increased social gatherings and visitors, the department advises residents to ensure firearms are securely locked up.

• Visibility and Movement: To prevent accidents, the DPS suggests using reflective tape, glow sticks, or flashlights on costumes, opting for face paint over masks to maintain visibility, and using sidewalks and crosswalks.

• General Precautions: Tips include visiting only well-lit houses, traveling with adult supervision, ensuring children know how to contact adults or emergency services, and checking the Texas Public Sex Offender Registry.