Children's safety should be the first priority while out trick-or-treating
It's the one day of the year reserved for fun, fantasy, costumes, candy and maybe even a few scares.
But to make sure Halloween fright stays lighthearted, police departments throughout DuPage County are sharing tips to help children and teens stay safe. Additionally, many local municipalities have declared designated trick-or-treat hours.
Think you know the rules for avoiding tricky situations (and focusing on treats) this Halloween? Then test your knowledge with this quiz based on safety tips offered by the Wheaton Police Department. And don't forget to check our listings for your local trick-or-treat hours.
Q. Is it true that children can zigzag from house-to-house while collecting candy, crossing the street anywhere as long as there are no cars?
A. False. Trick-or-treat on one side of the street at a time. Avoid crossing in the middle of the block or between parked cars. Cross only in the crosswalk or at the corner, using caution. In addition, police advise to always walk on the sidewalk when possible. If there is no sidewalk, keep to the left, next to the curb, and walk single file facing against traffic.
Q. Can you trick-or-treat after dark?
A. It's best to go out while it's light, but you can go door-to-door after dark if you wear white or light-colored clothing, put reflective tape on your costume and treat bag, and carry a flashlight so you can be seen. Police remind kids to never carry a lit torch or candle - try a glow stick instead.
Q. What's the best kind of costume for kids?
A. Any one you like - as long as it's nonflammable and fits properly. That means the outfit should be short enough to avoid tripping and should not have a face mask that obstructs vision.
Q. What's the best way to trick-or-treat?
A. With friends! Police say there is safety in numbers and no one should trick-or-treat alone. Young children should be accompanied by an adult or responsible teen.
Q. Is it safe to enter someone's house or car if they promise candy?
A. Absolutely not. Police say children should wait at the door for their treats. Children should also wait to eat candy until they arrive home, so parents can check for wrappers that show signs of tampering or weed out unwrapped treats. (Note to parents: report any suspicious treats to police.)
Q. Is it true that, since it's Halloween, you can't get in trouble for vandalizing property by damaging decorations, egging houses or other pranks.
A. False. Police say damage to other people's property will not be tolerated. In addition, homeowners that welcome trick-or-treaters should leave outside porch lights on, so children know it's OK to visit.
Q. Sure, sure, cell phones are a great way to communicate. But what is another way for parents and children to keep track of each other on Halloween?
A. Plan your trick-or-treat route ahead of time, staying in your own immediate neighborhood (or at least familiar ones) and only along well-lit streets after dark. Police say parents should know who their children are trick-or-treating with and which route they have planned.