For Immediate Release, Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Contact:  Suzanne Parsons Stymiest @ 985-898-5243

Trick or Treat

             Ghosts, goblins, cowgirls, princesses, and other creatures of fancy are encouraged to trick or treat only in the company of their parents, on October 31st between the hours of 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

             “With debris piles on many streets, it is important that parents accompany their children during trick-or-treat to ensure their safety,” said Parish President Kevin Davis.  “Sight lines on roads are not as good as normal and it is important that children be properly chaperoned at this time.  I know many school-age children will feel put out if their parents accompany them on their rounds, but I’d much rather have children mad at me for asking for chaperones than have any traffic accidents.”

             Street lights are not operational in many parts of St. Tammany.  Parents are encouraged to take basic safety precautions, such as using flashlights, light colored clothing and reflective tape on costumes.   Beware of debris piles.  They are not play areas for children.

             The parish-wide burn ban remains in effect.   Numerous fires have been started in the parish by cigarette butts being discarded from cars and trucks.  Fire in roadside debris is a danger to lives and property.  Please be especially careful on October 31st.

             Many citizens choose to spend the 31st in family gatherings at home or at their places of worship.  Please consider this alternative to the traditional trick-or-treat celebration.

 ###