By Payton Tholstrup

We have probably all heard the stories of drugged and poisoned candy being distributed to unsuspecting trick-or-treaters on Halloween night. The warnings have been repeated over and over: check your children’s Halloween candy before they consume it. How often has this happened though? Is the risk of candy being tampered with really that high, or is it mostly an urban legend?

Police Chief Bill Robinson of Clay Center said that he has worked for the police department for nearly 30 years and can’t remember an incident where someone has reported candy being tampered with. “That still doesn’t guarantee that it could not happen. It has been an issue elsewhere,” he said.

The biggest safety concern for children’s safety on Halloween night in Clay Center is motor vehicle traffic. “Most Halloween costumes are black or dark colored and are very hard to see at night. Children are also excited to be out trick-or-treating and may not be paying proper attention when crossing the streets,” Robinson said.

He emphasized the importance of parents making sure their children have the proper reflective gear and flashlights to make them more visible. He also added that motorists need to slow down and pay extra attention.

If parents cannot accompany their children while trick-or-treating, they should go in groups and avoid entering stranger’s homes or vehicles. If anyone makes them feel uneasy, they should run away and tell a responsible adult.

“Although not something we typically encounter, tampered-with candy and treats are possible,” he said. “Homemade items, unwrapped treats, or anything that appears to be out of the ordinary should be disposed of. If criminal activity is suspected, contact law enforcement.”