Local police share tips on Halloween trick or treating
The Palm Springs Police Department says incidents of laced Halloween candy are rare, but people planning to trick or treat should be cautious.
Palm Springs Police Department statement: "With Halloween upon us, PSPD is reminding parents to always check their kid’s Halloween Candy after Trick-Or-Treating. While incidents of laced Halloween candy are rare, it's important to exercise caution and educate children about candy safety, as well."
1. Inspect the packaging: Make sure candy wrappers are intact and sealed, with no signs of tampering.
2. Check for unusual colors, odors, or shapes: Throw out candy that looks or smells unusual.
3. Stick to trusted candy brands from reputable manufacturers.
4. Look for FDA-approved labels: Check for proper labeling and safety certifications on packaging.
5. Discard homemade treats, especially from someone you don’t know. Avoid homemade or unwrapped candies.
6. Examine foreign objects: Be vigilant for any foreign objects or sharp items in candy.
7. Allergen awareness: If your child has food allergies, read ingredient labels carefully.
8. Supervise young children: Always accompany them while they are Trick-or-Treating, inspecting and consuming candy.
9. Teach kids not to eat while trick-or-treating: Wait until returning home to examine and enjoy candy.
10. Keep a flashlight handy: Check candy in dimly lit areas.
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration breaks down what drug-laced candy is made of and what they are. An article reads, "Marijuana has a distinct and pungent odor." "When the active ingredient (THC) is cooked into food, those noticeable characteristics are gone. However, the effects caused by those ingredients are now in the food. Examples of such foods include candy bars, brownies, and gummies.
Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It takes the form of a white, odorless, bitter-tasting crystalline powder. Examples of such foods include gummies and hard candy."
