Stoughton Halloween Trick-Or-Treating Tips For Families

STOUGHTON, MA — Although there has been talk in some communities of designating the last Saturday in October the official "trick-or-treating day," Stoughton will hold trick-or-treating on the regular Oct. 31 holiday. Some communities have also set designated hours for the kids to go out and get candy.

The sun will set at 5:39 p.m. on Oct. 31, which means that the bulk of trick-or-treating will happen at night. Keep in mind the following safety tips for when you go to take the kids out for Halloween:

Walk Safely

• Cross the street at corners not in between cars; use traffic signals and crosswalks when applicable.
• Put electronic devices down and keep your head up and walk, don't run, across the street.
• Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to
• the left as possible.
• Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.

Trick or Treat With an Adult

• Children under 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.
• Keep Costumes both creative and safe
• Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child's vision.
• Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
• When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween

• Slow down and be alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
• Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
• Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.