According to CBS news, crime rates spike almost 17% nationwide on Halloween.

In Maize, Kansas, that’s simply not the case at all.

Watching scary movies and listening to spooky crime podcasts brings us to believe that many crimes are committed on the 31st of October, but in reality, crime on Halloween around the Maize and Wichita area really doesn’t increase compared to a normal day.

Newly retired Chief of the Wichita Police Department, Alex Shaw, watched arrests on Halloween decline through his thirty-three years of being on the force.

“Our department has caught a lot of arrests previously. It has slowed down in the past years, but we still made many arrests on Halloween night. The arrests have an average, just like every other day,” Shaw said.

As trick-or-treaters roam neighborhoods, the important thing for police is to watch and be ready to respond to call.

“[Current department] patrol just has to keep watch for any irregular Trick-or-Treating activity as Halloween gets later at night. They must be ready to respond when someone needs them,” Shaw said.

While police are ready to keep the community safe on Halloween, citizens can help do their part too. Maize Police Department Chief Jeff Weible believes that planning your outfit out in advance can actually keep your family safe while trick-or-treating.

“Speaking about safety as far as Halloween goes, we encourage people to wear reflective clothing if they’re going to be going door-to-door trick-or-treating,” Weible said.

While staying visible on Halloween is important, supporting your community is even more important on this spooky eve.

Weible encourages the community of Maize to participate in the local events being held that ensure safety for those involved in the festivities.

“We also encourage people to attend the Trunk-or-Treats that are offered throughout the community,” Weible said. “In fact, we will be holding one in partnership with Maize Rec on the 28th, and people can drive through and get candy.”