Pubdate: Tue, 21 Oct 2008 Source: Marco Eagle (FL) Contact: (239)213-5382 Copyright: 2009 The E.W. Scripps Co. Website: http://www.marconews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4954 Authors: Chief Tom Carr and Officer Jennifer Lofy Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) KEEPING OUR CHILDREN SAFE, DRUG FREE It is that time of year when the children in our community are finalizing the finishing touches to their trick or treat outfits and law enforcement agencies remind all of us about the dangers of drugs. As the chief of police and the prevention officer we wish to encourage all of you to participate in Red Ribbon Week and provide some tips to keep safe of Halloween night. Red Ribbon Week The Red Ribbon Campaign is now the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the nation reaching millions of young people during Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-31 each year. The Red Ribbon Campaign was started when drug traffickers in Mexico City murdered Drug Enforcement Agent Kiki Camarena in 1985. The red ribbon is worn to display a symbol of intolerance towards the use of drugs and present a commitment toward keeping kids drug free. Wear your red badge proudly and have the courage to say no to drugs! Since the time Red Ribbon Week was established, the drug of choice has changed many times. But as parents, the key to keeping children safe is to talk about the dangers of drug abuse. Prescription drugs have become more of a problem too. Parents should set clear rules for our children about not using drugs, be a good example for our children by not using illegal drugs or medicine without a prescription. More than 3.1 million teenagers between the ages of 12 to 17 report abusing prescription drugs, therefore relatives should lock up their medication or place it where children cannot access it. Also remember to dispose of older medication properly to ensure that it is not abused. Keeping up to date on the most commonly abused types of prescription medications, like pain relievers, sedatives, stimulants or tranquilizers is important as well as communicate the dangers to your child regularly. Do not be afraid to repeat the message, once is not enough. It could be the difference between life and death. Safety tips for trick or treat It's time to say trick or treat! As the end of October approaches us we have one of our biggest events for our youth and youth at heart, Halloween. This year like others in the past we want this Halloween to be fun and safe for all. As a Marco Island tradition, trick or treat will again take place at dusk Oct. 31. For everyone to enjoy the spirits of ghost and goblins, the Marco Island Police Department asks for every participant to consider some good safety tips. - Trick or treaters please use make-up instead of mask so you can see. - Wear light-colored reflective clothing and keep costumes short to prevent trips or falls. - Carry a flashlight or light stick. - Stay with parents guardians and for the older children stay in groups. - Be respectful of other people and their property. - Don't go inside homes or vehicles. - Stop at well-lighted houses. - Use sidewalks. - Stop, look and listen at street corners. - Keep a safe distance between you and moving cars. Parents/guardians lets make you're trick or treat trouble free by following some of these safety tips. - Adults should accompany young children. - Make sure children have access to a phone and know where to reach parents/guardians. - Check and inspect all treats in a well-lighted place. - Eat only unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers. Any suspicious candies or treats found the Marco Island Police Department needs to be notified right away. - Have children approach well lit homes, and set a specific time for older children out trick or treating to return home. - Use sidewalks. - For the youth at heart who help us have a great Halloween please remember to make sure yards and walkways are well lit and clear of debris. - Consider distributing healthy alternatives to candy such as pencils, popcorn, stickers or tooth brushes. - Keep costume children away from your pets. - Watch for passing vehicles and obey traffic laws. - Use extreme caution when driving through residential areas. The Marco Island Police Department will be out in full force that night. Along with uniform officers on patrol in vehicles, bikes, and a golf cart. The Marco Island Police Foundation will be assisting Halloween night by being out at comers and passing out their famous glow bracelets to each and every goblin. If you have a concern or question, please make anyone of these individuals aware. If an emergency arises please dial 911. Halloween can be a lot of fun for parents and kids alike - if everybody remembers the tricks and treats of playing it safe. Have a fun and safe Halloween from the Marco Island Police Department. Together we can keep our children drug free and safe during Halloween.