LAWRENCEVILLE — Trick-or-treaters hear plenty of warnings about their costumes and candy consumption and being careful when crossing the street on Halloween, but they may not realize that there's another precaution they should take - avoiding the homes of registered sex offenders.
Gwinnett County Sheriff Butch Conway issued an email reminder Thursday, telling kids - and their parents - to be aware of the 486 registered sex offenders currently residing in Gwinnett.
Conway encouraged parents to use the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office web site to see specific addresses and photos of offenders who live in the county. That way, they can make sure their children avoid visiting those homes on Halloween night.
“If you aren’t planning on trick-or-treating in your own neighborhood, but will do so in a different neighborhood, it’s a good idea to check that address beforehand so that you know which houses to avoid,” said Conway in an email statement.
Each sheriff's office in the north Georgia area have similar information on their sites. Hall County shows a total of 303 sex offenders residing in the county, while Dawson County shows photos and addresses for 48 sex offenders in the county. Again, all other counties should have the same type of information on their web sites.
In addition to the warning about sex offenders, Sheriff Conway offered other advice to help ensure a safe and fun night of trick-or-treating:
- A responsible adult should accompany children under 12 years old when trick-or-treating
- Ensure costumes fit well, are flame retardant and never obscure visibility
- Have your trick-or-treater wear reflective clothing
- Children over the age of 12 and who are responsible enough to go without you should stay in groups, follow a pre-determined route and watch for cars
- Check your local law enforcement agency’s website for registered sex offenders in your area
- Remind children to never enter any home without you or without your permission and to only approach homes that are well lit
- Let children know to tell a trusted adult if they see anything weird or unusual
- Teach children to bring treats home before eating them. Eat only factory-wrapped treats unless you know the giver well
- Teach your children to say “NO” and “GET AWAY” from any person or situation making them scared, uncomfortable or confused, even if it means yelling, kicking, attracting attention or any other means of resisting. Teach them to trust their feelings and be sure to tell a trusted adult about any incident
- Consider safe alternatives to trick-or-treating, such as parties at home, schools or community organized events
