Tips for a Fun, Safe Halloween

Before children head out for a night of trick-or-treating fun this Wednesday night, it's important to keep safety in mind.

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The city of Naperville does not have any set trick-or-treating hours for Halloween, but the Naperville Police Department suggest younger children finish by the time it gets dark and older children by 8 p.m.

Halloween Safety Tips:

• Make sure children carry a flashlight and are accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating. Glow sticks are also a fun way to light the way.
• Costumes should be light-colored or decorated with reflective tape. Make sure costumes do not interfere with vision or movement. Long, flowing costume layers may be a hazard, especially if children come in contact with a glowing jack-o-lantern.
• Have children trick-or-treat in their own neighborhood and in well-lit areas. Be sure they avoid short cuts or places where they cannot be seen or heard by others, and instruct children never to enter a house while trick-or-treating. 
• All children are encouraged to trick-or-treat with a friend. If children are trick-or-treating without an adult, be sure to establish a curfew so children know when they need to arrive home. Also, as a parent, be sure that an established route is discussed and agreed upon so that you know where your children will be trick-or-treating.
• Households welcoming trick-or-treaters should leave on a porch light or other exterior light. Never ask children to step inside to receive their treats and call 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect a child is lost or in trouble. 
• Tell children not to eat any of their treats unless examined by a parent. Call the police if there are any suspicious treats. 
• Children should remember to look both ways before crossing the street and cross at corners only.  Be sure to tell children to “Stop, Look and Listen.” 

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Information submitted by the city of Naperville.