Should Children Trick or Treat at Sex Offenders' Front Door?

We all know that you can go to your neighborhood sheriff's website and find out where sex offenders live. But how comfortable are you in having your children, knock on their doors, during Halloween?

Photo by hanna_horwarth

Back in the 70's there was the fear of razor blades in apples and poisoned candy. Now, many cities are concerned about sex offenders or pedophiles. For example, in a city in California, there is an ordinance in place that does not allow sex offenders to display halloween decor outside their homes. The sex offenders are also not allowed to open the door if trick or treaters knock. It also prohibits these individuals to light up their lights outside, after dark. Plus, the ordinance also requires sex offenders or pedophiles to place a sign on their doors with one inch lettering. This sign is required to read: "No candy or treats at this residence."

But these cautionary measures for children aren't only in California... In a neighborhood in Florida, a home association motioned to dispatch a security guard to keep an eye or monitor a sex offender's home during Halloween. In Georgia some uniformed guards were placed at a neighborhood's gated entrance, to distribute flyers informing neighbors, where the pedophiles lived.

There are some lawyers already filing lawsuits in courts, stating that these types of laws or ordinances, infringe on the First Amendment rights of pedophiles. What's your view on this issue? Is it worth while for the safety of our children on Halloween? Or does it go overboard and is it unconstitutional against pedophiles?

Halloween Safety Tips for Children & Adults

It's getting close to Halloween again! Kids are getting excited and grownups are planing parties. We all have fun and eat sweets during and long after Halloween is over!

Like all social events, there are always some concerns. Halloween, unfortunately carries with it some extra dangers. The fact that most people conceal their identity by wearing masks or makeup, makes it even more worrisome. Below we included some Halloween safety tips for children and adults:

Safety tips for Trick or Treating Children

• Children should never enter the house or car of a stranger to get treats
• Never eat treats that are unwrapped or any kind of fruit
• Wear bright clothes or carry a flashlight so cars can see you
• Avoid porches or homes that are dark
• Take a personal alarm or cell phone, in case you are in danger
• Go trick or treating in groups, preferably w/ adult supervision

Safety tips for Partying Adults

• Always get your own drink at a party
• Never take your eyes off of your drink
• Never pour yourself a drink from an open container such as a punch bowl
• Never accept a drink from someone you don't know, unless it is sealed
• Introduce a person you just met, to your friends
• Never leave the party with a person you just met
• When leaving, always have a known designated adult, sober driver or call a taxi
• Always carry a self defense weapon, such as pepper spray, to a party or nightclub

There you have it. Just remember to follow your instincts; if something doesn't seem right, it probably isn't. Have a safe and happy Halloween!