Lake in the Hills to host 10th annual Safe Trick-or-Treat Night Oct. 31
The Lake in the Hills Police Department will hold its 10th annual Safe Trick-or-Treat Night for kids on Tuesday, Oct. 31, from 3 to 6 p.m.
Children will be able to trick-or-treat throughout the miniature town located behind the Safety Education Center at 1109 Crystal Lake Road,
Children will be in a fenced area where they will be able to go up to each of the little buildings and meet friendly monsters and other cool characters who will be handing out treats.
The village's recommended trick-or-treating hours are from 2 to 8 p.m.
Halloween is a time of costumes, fun, trick-or-treating, and parties. Goblins, ghosts and ghouls of all ages, shapes and sizes will be out and about. During this time of trickery and treats there are several things to keep in mind to ensure a safe, happy Halloween for all.
The police department reminds drivers to pay particular attention when driving through residential areas being constantly ready for a darting young ghost.
Drivers shouldn't use their cellphone while driving on Halloween night. Driver distraction has caused an increase in traffic crashes and there will be many young children out that night.
The obvious checking of candy before your children eat is a must, but consider making sure they have a filling meal prior to trick-or-treating to reduce their chance of sneaking a snack out of hunger before your inspection.
Costumes should be flame retardant, and if they don't already have some type of reflective tape see if you can somehow work some into the costume. Visibility is a must if they happen to get excited and run ahead of you.
While not a pleasant thing to think of, Halloween is a night child predators could look for victims. Parents can access the Illinois State Police Sex Offender Registration website at www.isp.state.il.us/sor/ and enter your address. The map will show you the addresses of all registered sex offenders within the distance of your home.
Finally, for our four legged family members, remember that constant doorbell ringing and knocking may be too much excitement for them to handle. Consider setting up a quiet room for them where they can escape the anxiety. It is also important to remember that a dog may nip at kids in costumes if frightened and they may also get loose with the frequent door openings. And finally, remember that candy is never good for animals, and chocolate is toxic to them.