2019 Hours, Tips For Trick-Or Treating In Hillsborough County

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — There's no hard and fast rule as to when trick-or-treating begins or ends in Hillsborough County neighborhoods on Thursday, Oct. 31. However, a good rule of thumb is to allow neighbors to get home from work and settled before knocking on their doors for goodies.

Then, try to finish up before 8 p.m. The two-hour window between 6 and 8 p.m. is usually the best time to trick-or-treat.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reminds parents that "fake" weapons such as guns, knives, and swords should be made of materials that are smooth soft, and flexible to prevent injuries. Props for children that actually look like a real weapon should be avoided completely.

Safety Tips For Trick-Or-Treaters:

• Only trick-or-treat at homes with the front porch light on
• Be part of a group and do not stray from the group, there is safety in numbers.
• Do not enter the home of a stranger.
• Never accept rides from strangers.
• Look both ways before crossing the street and cross when the pedestrian crosswalk light signals you to walk.
• Carry flash lights so you can be easily seen.
• Do not take shortcuts through backyards, parks or alleys.
• Be alert, have fun but do not let your guard down.

Safety Tips For The House:

• Keep a porch light on so trick-or-treaters will know to visit and can see where they are walking.
• Remove yard clutter that trick-or-treaters may trip over.
• Secure your pets to protect both the visitors and your pets.
• Use battery-powered Jack-O-Lanterns instead of ones with candles. If you do use candles, make sure they are far enough out of the way so that kids' costumes won't accidentally be set on fire.
• Avoid giving homemade treats. Responsible parents do not allow their children to eat them unless they know the person making them.

Safety Tips For Parents:

• Young children should be accompanied by an adult.
• Check your child's candy before they consume it. Anything suspicious should be discarded.
• Feed your children before they set out. This should help discourage them from trying their treats before you are able to check them.
• Know where your child is and whom they are with.
• Buy flame-retardant costumes and consider using makeup rather than masks. A mask may obscure your child's vision.
• Costumes should be light-colored or have reflective tape on them.
• Costumes should be made from light materials to avoid dehydration and other heat-related issues.