With Halloween fast approaching, Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler would like to remind parents of some holiday safety tips to keep in mind.       

• Be sure and check www.newtoncountysheriff.org/sex_offenders to see the addresses and a map to all registered sex offenders in Newton County to make sure your children aren't inadvertently walking into danger.
• Children should never be allowed to go out alone on Halloween.
• Children should never eat any treats until they have been examined.
• All fruit should be cut and closely examined before eating.
• Advise children that they should never enter strangers' homes.
• Never invite children you don't know into your home.
• Children should never accept rides from strangers.
• Set a specific time limit for your children to be out on Halloween night.
• Instruct children not to stray from their group.
• A responsible adult should escort children while trick-or-treating and should carry lights.
• Parents should know what route their children will be taking.
• All costumes should be made of light-colored material.
• Masks should not be worn if they impair vision.
• Children should look in all directions before crossing the street.
• Motorists should drive slowly, yield to young pedestrians and watch out for Trick-or-Treaters darting into the road.
• Some local churches and other organizations are doing "Trunk or Treat" events on Halloween night which offers a safe environment for children to visit.
• Be sure and bring the kids by the Historic Old Newton County Jail for a spook house and trick-or-treating Halloween night from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.

            Following these tips will help ensure that your little ghosts and ghouls have a fun, yet safe, Halloween evening. If you have any problems or encounter any suspicious situations, call the Newton County Sheriff's Office at (870) 446-5124.