WCSO to screen Halloween candy, offers tips

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office will offer free Halloween candy X-ray screening at the Washoe County Courthouse on the day after Halloween.

Court security staff will screen candy inside the Court Street entrance to the courthouse in Reno from 9am-6:30pm Nov. 1.

The X-ray machine will detect metal objects only. Parents who feel candy has been tampered with should dispose of the candy immediately.

Here are some Halloween safety tips from the sheriff’s department:

• Never allow a child to trick-or-treat alone.
• Accompany children to the door of every house they approach.
• Don’t allow children to enter a home or apartment without adult supervision.
• Children should not approach strange vehicles.
• Remain visible. Wear bright clothing or use reflective strips on costumes. Carry a glow stick or flashlight.
• Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations. Look both ways before crossing, walk on sidewalks, obey traffic signals and stop signs.
• Always walk; never run across streets or lawns.
• Trick or treat at friendly homes. Warn children to stay away from houses that are not well lit.
• Do not go onto properties that are marked “Keep Out,” “No Trespassing” and/or “No Solicitors Allowed”.
• Never allow a child to eat Halloween candy until an adult checks it. Dispose of anything that seems to have been tampered with, opened or unwrapped.
• Instruct children to shout for help and make a scene if anyone tries to grab them or force them into involuntary situations.
• Children should immediately report anything suspicious to their parents and/or law enforcement.
• Consider alternatives to trick-or-treating such as community Halloween events or organize your own party at home.
• Be sure to have a plan for what your child should do if you do become separated.