Stafford County Sheriff’s deputies will be maintaining an increased presence in neighborhoods during the evening hours of Saturday, October 31 to help ensure trick-or-treaters have a safe night.

The Sheriff’s Office also encourages parents to take advantage of our candy screening service which will take place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Stafford Courthouse located at 1300 Courthouse Road. Please note: the x-ray process can only detect the presence of pins, needles, and other metallic objects.

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office also recommends residents follow the below safety tips to help ensure everyone has a safe and happy Halloween.

Trick-or-Treat Safety Tips:
• Remind children to never enter a stranger’s home or accept a ride from a stranger.
• Use flashlights or reflective clothing to help children be seen by drivers.
• Only cross streets at corners, traffic signals, or crosswalks.
• Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
• Make sure younger trick-or-treaters are accompanied by an adult.
• View the CDC’s recommendations for trick-or-treating during the COVID-19 pandemic at the link below:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/halloween.html

Driver Safety Tips:
• Slow down and stay alert in neighborhoods. Children often move in unpredictable ways.
• Enter and exit driveways slowly.
• Take extra time at intersections to make sure no children are crossing.
• Put away electronic devices and don’t drive distracted.