Snow Not to Deter Trick-or-Treating in Palatine

PALATINE, IL —Palatine does not plan to switch its trick-or-treat hours on Halloween due to a winter storm in the forecast for the holiday. At least one suburb, Vernon Hills, did announce it would postpone trick-or-treating in town until Saturday because of low temps and the wintry weather.

"This decision was not made lightly, because we understand some residents may be disappointed or inconvenienced,"said Vernon Hills Chief of Police Patrick Kreis in a news release Wednesday. "With an increased amount of children out in neighborhoods trick-or-treating during the evening rush hour, a mix of wintry weather could unnecessarily put those looking to enjoy the holiday in harm'sway. The safety of everyone involved is our highest priority."

• Vernon Hills Postpones Trick or Treating Due to Winter Weather

In Palatine, trick-or-treating hours will stay the same on Thursday, village manager Reid Ottesen told Patch in an e-mail response. Trick or treating will run from 3 to 7 p.m. Up to five inches of snow is in the forecast for the Chicago area.

A full list of trick-or-treat hours in the northwest suburbs can be found on Patch.com.

The Palatine Police Department is encouraging parents and youngsters to keep follow the following safety tips while out and about on Halloween:

• Walk safely.
• Make sure children are accompanied by an adult or responsible teenager when they go door-to-door.
• Instruct children never to eat anything until they are home and only after treats have been examined by an adult.
• Do not allow children to eat homemade goodies or food.
• Check the treat wrappers for signs of tampering.
• Call the police at 9-1-1 if there are any suspicious treats.
• Make sure children's costumes fit, they are short enough to prevent tripping, and that their view is not obstructed.
• Remember, face paint is better than a mask for visibility.
• Tell children to trick or treat in their own neighborhood, and to stay on well-lit streets.
• Teach children not to go inside any home, garage, or back yard.
• If children are going to be out after dark, make sure they carry a flashlight. Any amount of reflective clothing or tape is a good idea.
• Know which friends children will be with and which route they will be taking.
• Leave porch lights on so children will know it is ok to visit your home.
• Teach children to use the sidewalks and watch out for traffic.
• Keep costumed children away from pets. The pet may not recognize the child and could become frightened.

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