Image courtesy of LGTPD
The Giant grocery story parking lot will provide a space for this interactive event.
The fun tradition of Trick-or-Treating has origins dating back 2,000 years, with Celtic traditions merging with Christianity’s All Soul’s Day, and then again with United Kingdom’s Guy Fawkes Night. And as all good American traditions often are, a melting pot of these histories have come together in an excitement for all ages.
According to the National Retail Federation, the holiday in 2024 is expected to reach $11.6 billion in spending across the United States, with many Americans making purchases well before October.
In an interest to offer a safe event for the community, the Lower Gwynedd Township Police Department will host a Trick-or-Treat and Conversation with Cops on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Slated for the Giant grocery store parking lot, 1121 Bethlehem Pike, in Spring House, the event is designed to promote safe practices, while also of course handing out those sweet treats for children.
“Trick-or-Treat with Cops is a fantastic way to combine the fun of Halloween and a relaxed setting for engaging with local law enforcement, discussing community concerns, and fostering a better understanding between police and residents,” said LGTPD Chief Paul D. Kenny. “The Halloween safety discussion is a timely topic, too. It is a perfect opportunity.”
Kenny said, via the department’s Crimewatch page, that some topics to be discussed will include:
Children and parents can benefit from the annual reminders, helping to provide an environment all can enjoy without dangers that may accompany the holiday traditions.
For example, Kenny said via the post that costumes should be fire-resistant and should involve reflective tape as possible to make children more visible to motorists. Likewise, while out on the journey to collect candy, children should also stick to sidewalks.
“Look both ways before crossing the street,” reminded Kenny. “And avoid running between parked cars.”
Reviewing these tips with kids just before the holiday can go a long way at reminding them of the night’s potential dangers. And, while most urban legends of drugs, razor blades, or poison put into candies have been debunked, it is still a smart idea to go through the collection prior to diving into the treats.
Any unwrapped or opened candies may have been tampered with, but also present an unsanitary treat and should be discarded. Parents should also be sorting the candy with children to ensure any allergens are removed.
Kenny said that children should also be reminded that Trick-or-Treaters should only visit well-lit homes during their journey and should never enter the home of a stranger.
To learn more about these helpful tips, as well as enjoy a meet-and-greet with those sworn to serve and protect our communities, stop by the Lower Gwynedd Police Department’s event on Saturday, Oct. 19.
There is no fee to attend the event, and all township residents are welcome to attend. No registration is required.
