Police, fire to provide extra Halloween presence in Senita, Tortosa

Maricopa police and firefighters will distribute glow sticks and help parents and trick-or-treaters in the Senita and Tortosa neighborhoods on Halloween.

“There’s always a lot of attention to some of the events in the city, but this is a great opportunity to get us out into the community more,” said Brad Pitassi, Maricopa Fire Department spokesman.

“Drivers don’t adapt to the increased foot traffic,” Pitassi said.

The departments usually have a presence at the Maricopa Trick or Treat event at Pacana Park, the annual Church of Celebration Halloween event.

Having an increased police presence can also mitigate “the mischief issues teens and older kids get into,” said police Commander Jim Hughes.

“If we can be in close proximity, that can help up eliminate or reduce those issues,” Hughes said.

The joint operation also is a chance for the departments to practice working together.

“We’re together on it,” Hughes said. “Having cohesion is so important. The best way to improve our association is to know each other on personal and department level.”

General safety tips include ensuring children’s costumes give them full visibility of the street and that they are wearing something to help parents monitor them, such as a reflective strip.

Click here for more safety tips.