SC announces curfew for child sex offenders on Halloween. What to know
This Halloween, South Carolina officials are taking extra precautions to protect trick-or-treaters.
The South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services announced it will enforce a statewide Halloween curfew for all sex offenders under supervision whose crimes involved a child.
Here’s what to know about the curfew and other safety tips for trick-or-treaters this year:
What to know about the curfew
- Time: 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31.
- Who it applies to: Individuals under SCDPPPS supervision for sex offenses involving children.
- Those under this curfew must: Remain inside their homes during set hours, turn off all porch and exterior lights and are not allowed to distribute candy or participate in any Halloween activities.
SCDPPPS states that agents will conduct home visits and surveillance checks throughout the evening to ensure compliance. Officials stress that these rules only apply to offenders currently under supervision — not all registered sex offenders in the state.
Residents who wish to learn more or view a list of sex offenders in their area can visit the South Carolina Sex Offender Registry website.
Safety tips for families & trick-or-treaters this Halloween
The American Red Cross of South Carolina provides these guidelines to parents and families and encourages folks to take extra precautions while trick-or-treating:
- A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children door-to-door.
- Walk along streets and avoid running.
- Stay on sidewalks whenever possible. If there are none, walk facing traffic at the edge of the road.
- Cross streets at corners and avoid running between parked cars.
- Carry flashlights or glow sticks to increase visibility in the dark.
- Supervise young children and plan routes for older kids going out alone.
- Visit only well-lit homes and never enter a stranger’s house.
- Inspect all candy before eating, removing anything unwrapped or suspicious.
- Be cautious around unfamiliar animals and other pets.
Homeowners welcoming trick-or-treaters are encouraged to keep walkways clear, sweep leaves and ensure good lighting around their porches or steps.
Halloween night driving & party safety
Road safety is another important factor on Halloween. The Red Cross of South Carolina says that the number of alcohol-related traffic incidents jumps around Halloween, too.
Before getting behind the wheel or hosting a party, keep these tips in mind:
- If you’re hosting a party, collect keys from guests who are drinking and offer non-alcoholic options.
- Plan ahead for safe transportation, such as using ride-sharing, taxis or designated drivers.
- Drivers should slow down and stay alert for children in dark costumes, especially in residential areas.
