Susanville Police Chief Tom Downing is reminding residents that when Main Street in uptown closes for the big ‘Safe and Sane’ Halloween party Thursday afternoon smokers in the area will have to douse their cigarettes or violate a City Council approved ordinance prohibiting smoking during the event.
Specifically, the ordinance prohibits smoking on Main Street between Weatherlow and Roop Streets and the first blocks of Roop, Lassen, Gay, Union and Weatherlow Streets on both sides of Main Street from 3:00 to 5:00p.m. during the celebration.
“Last year we had very good compliance with this ordinance,” said Downing, “I would like remind the public of this new law and ask for their cooperation again this year while visiting the uptown Halloween event where children will be present.”
“Not only is second hand smoke hazardous to young children it also poses a danger to the children’s safety who many times are wearing costumes that may be flammable if they come into contact with hot cigarette embers.”
The Police Department, along with many other community public health partners, urges you to remain smoke free while at this event for the safety of the children in our community. Failure to comply could result in a citation being issued for a violation of the Susanville Municipal Code.
Additionally, here are some safety tips for children this Halloween season:
• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.
• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
• Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.
• Remember reflective tape for costumes and trick-or-treat bags.
• Carry a cellphone for quick communication.
• Remain on well-lit streets and use the sidewalks if available.
• Never cut across yards or use alleys.
• Only cross the street as a group. Never cross between parked cars or out driveways.
• Don’t assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn’t mean others will!
• Call the police immediately to report any suspicious or unlawful activity.
The police department will be out patrolling the streets to ensure the safety of the public. If you have any questions or comments you can contact Chief Downing at the Susanville Police Department during regular business hours, or at (530) 257-5603.
