Mt. Juliet Tenn. — The Department is preparing for a busy Halloween night with plans to quadruple patrol staffing on Saturday, October 31, to help keep neighborhoods safe as thousands of children and families enjoy trick-or-treating.
Halloween is one of Mt. Juliet’s most popular community traditions, drawing residents and visitors who come to enjoy the holiday in a safe community and family-friendly environment. Officers will provide an increased presence throughout neighborhoods to help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable evening. In an effort to keep our community organized, it is recommended that trick-or-treating activities take place between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
As part of the department’s Halloween safety efforts, officers will also hand out candy and LED safety lights to trick-or-treaters. The lights are intended to help children remain visible to motorists after dark.
Pedestrian safety remains the department’s greatest concern. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
“One of the things that makes Mt. Juliet special is seeing so many families out enjoying Halloween in our neighborhoods,” Police Chief Tyler Chandler said. “We want everyone to have a great night, and our officers will be out strong to help make that happen. But keeping children safe takes all of us. Please slow down, watch for children and look out for one another.”
The department encourages parents to make sure costumes are visible at night by using reflective materials, flashlights or other lighting. Children should be reminded to cross streets at intersections, avoid walking between parked vehicles and remain aware of approaching traffic.
Drivers are urged to use extra caution in residential neighborhoods. Children can be unpredictable, especially when excited or distracted by costumes, decorations and other activities.
Officers will also be watching for unsafe driving, illegal activity and other behavior that could threaten the safety of trick-or-treaters.
With the growing popularity of electric scooters and e-bikes, parents are encouraged to talk with their children about safe operation, traffic laws and the importance of being safe.
Parking is another important consideration. Residents and visitors should park responsibly and avoid blocking roadways, driveways or access for emergency vehicles. Officers will be monitoring parking conditions throughout neighborhoods.
Community members play an important role in keeping Mt. Juliet safe. Anyone who observes reckless driving, dangerous behavior or suspicious activity is encouraged to report it promptly so officers can respond.
The Mt. Juliet Police Department wishes everyone a fun, memorable and safe Halloween.
For non-emergency assistance, contact MJPD at 615-754-2550. For emergencies, call 911.
Additional Halloween safety information is available through Safe Kids Worldwide.
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