The Lawrenceville BOO Fest is an exciting fall event that combines costumes, laughs, and a sense of community spirit. Families, friends, and children join in to enjoy candy, games, and music in downtown Lawrenceville. While the event brings joy, it's also important to think about safety. A little preparation can make the night both exciting and secure.

Every year, major events attract more people into the streets of the cities. The lights, the decorations, and the crowds may not make for easy visibility, especially after dark. Planning helps you and your loved ones get through the event safely.

Here's how to stay safe during BOO Fest so that everyone can enjoy the celebration without worry.

Downtown Lawrenceville is charming and active, with road closings for parades and activities when BOO Fest is in town. Take a minute to look over the event map before you head out so you know where everything is, from parking and restrooms to meeting spots, once the fun begins.

One of the best ways to stay safe during BOO Fest and ensure everyone enjoys the night without worry is to plan. Plan to arrive early: This way, you will have enough time to take photos, settle in, and explore before the sun sets.

Halloween costumes make BOO Fest a very colorful and exciting event. However, some costumes can cause trips or make people harder to see. Choose clothing that is bright or includes reflective material. Add glow sticks, light-up bracelets, or reflective tape to help drivers and other people see you in dim light.

Comfort counts, too. Ensure that shoes fit well and that costumes are comfortable, allowing for easy walking. Masks shouldn't obstruct vision or hearing. On kids, avoid capes or loose fabric that could be an entanglement hazard.

As the sun sets, streets become alive with lights and movement. It can be easy to let music and decorations distract you. Stay in well-lit areas at all times, and have flashlights or glow accessories on hand. When possible, walk in groups. This can be especially helpful if you have kids at your party. It's always easier for everyone in a visible group to find each other in a crowd of people.

Traffic crawls downtown, but that doesn't mean pedestrians shouldn't use the crosswalks. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Never assume cars will automatically stop.

Children get excited at events such as BOO Fest. It is easy for them to wander when there are treats and light everywhere, along with costumes. Stay close and remind children to stay within sight of you. For your younger kids, please write your phone number on a small tag or wristband in case they get separated.

Older kids should stay together in small groups and check in frequently. Teach them to seek assistance from event staff or the police if they ever need help.

The largest safety concerns are often around streets and parking lots. Many people leave right at the end of an event, which results in crowded sidewalks and slowed traffic. Walk on sidewalks, not in the street, and use marked crossings only. When walking to or from your car, hold hands with younger kids.

Avoid walking behind vehicles that are backing up, and always stay alert near driveways or parking lots. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the most crowded and low-light conditions contribute to a rise in pedestrian injuries on Halloween nights. Awareness in those moments helps keep everyone out of harm's way.

Anyone who attends BOO Fest should know how to be visible and safe throughout the night.

Remember these important points:

• It will help you and your group stay safe as the crowds get larger and the sun starts to set.

• Understanding how to move through busy areas and staying alert helps you know what to expect during the event.

• Plan ahead to ensure your evening goes smoothly; stick to well-lit areas and keep a close watch on children.