Community Corner

Greenburgh Police: Tips for Staying Safe this Halloween

Local law enforcement will be cracking down on egg throwing and other activities, the Chief stated.

With no signs of possible snowstorms (so far) this Halloween, it will likely be the first time in three years trick-or-treaters will be out in full force.

Greenburgh Chief of Police Joseph DeCarlo is reminding residents to "do their part in helping keep Halloween safe and fun," with a number of tips.

He warned that egg throwing is generally a "major cause of property damage occurring on Halloween," and encourages adults to speak with younger people about refraining from dangerous activities.

"Such conduct results in the siding on homes and businesses being stained and windows being broken," he said. "It has also resulted in injuries to children who were struck in the face or head and has on several occasions caused the obstruction of drivers' views when the windshields of their vehicles were struck by eggs."

DeCarlo shared a number of safety tips to keep in mind this Halloween, including:

  • Feed children prior to sending them trick-or-treating in order to help them resist the temptation to consume candy prior to its being inspected.
  • Only purchase and allow children to eat wrapped or packaged candy.
  • Trick-or-treat in familiar neighborhoods and only approach well-lit homes.
  • Have children walk on sidewalks / Instruct them to cross streets only at corners, with masks removed.
  • Use safe costumes—make sure materials are "flame retardant," opt for well fitting costumes and avoid accessories with sharp edges like swords and knives.
DeCarlo said police officers will be patrolling local streets on Halloween night.

"While the police want your children to have fun, we caution that their enjoyment should not come at the expense of damage to private or public property or in the harassment of residents or the terrorizing of younger children," DeCarlo wrote. "The police will aggressively enforce the law and youngsters discovered breaking it will find themselves facing some very unpleasant consequences."

Making Halloween "a safe and happy occasion," DeCarlo emphsized, "is our collective responsibility." 


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here