BUNNELL, Fla. — The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office is increasing patrols for an expected increase in vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic on roadways and in residential areas of Flagler County this Halloween.

To accommodate the anticipated increase in activity, additional deputies and volunteers from FCSO’s Citizens Observed Patrol will be on duty to ensure everyone can enjoy Halloween safely, especially in residential areas where a high volume of trick-or-treating is expected. Deputies on bicycles will patrol areas expected to see the heaviest Halloween pedestrian traffic, including the B-section around Belleaire Drive and Palm Coast Fire Station 21, where the Palm Coast Fire Department is hosting its annual Hall of Terror. Message boards and extra light towers will also be on Belle Terre Parkway near the library and the United Methodist Church.

FCSO’s COP volunteers will also be on duty supporting patrol and traffic units in key locations along Belle Terre Parkway and Belleaire Drive. In addition, FCSO’s Sex Offender Unit continues to check on sex offenders and predators who are not allowed to distribute candy, decorate their homes for Halloween, have contact with minors, or leave their residences after 4:30 p.m. on Halloween.

FCSO encourages everyone to enjoy themselves responsibly but be aware that costume mishaps and traffic crashes are two of the most common ways your Halloween can be ruined.

“We hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween. The Sheriff’s Office is working hard to make sure you can safely enjoy Halloween,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “Safety is always our priority, especially with so many community events, kids and parents walking through neighborhoods. We’re asking trick-or-treaters to be aware of their surroundings, watch for vehicles, wear light-colored clothing or wear reflective costumes, or have flashlights. We also ask drivers to drive slowly, watch for trick-or-treaters, and don’t drive distracted or impaired. Remember, if you ‘See Something, Say Something’ by calling our non-emergency number at (386) 313-4911 or dial 9-1-1 in an emergency.”

Here are some safety tips Sheriff Staly and FCSO encourage you to follow to help safely enjoy Halloween.

COSTUMES

Make sure your costume fits properly

Make sure masks don’t obstruct your vision

Carry a flashlight or glow stick so you can be seen at night

TRICK-OR-TREATERS

Never trick-or-treat alone

Only visit well-lit homes, always stay on the porch, and never enter the home.

Look both ways when crossing the street

Cross major roadways at designated crosswalks

PARENTS

Always supervise your children

Speak to your child about an emergency plan in case you are separated

Inspect all candy. When in doubt, throw it out.

DRIVERS

Reduce your speed, and watch for pedestrians

Use your headlights, even at dusk

Don’t let children ride unsecured in a vehicle, even when driving house to house

Don’t Drink and Drive