Halloween 2016: Trick or Treating Hours in Burke

BURKE, VA — Fairfax County has no set hours for trick-or-treating Monday night, but like many jurisdictions, the rule of thumb is from dusk to 9 p.m.

In other words, feel free to shut down your treat-giving operation by the loose deadline.

Fairfax County has put together some tips to help residents enjoy and be safe during Halloween:

When is trick-or-treating? Some communities, cities and counties designate a specific time and sometimes a day other than Oct. 31 for trick-or-treating. Fairfax County Government does not set a different date. Halloween is Monday, Oct. 31. Your homeowners association or apartment complex may set times for events, but neighborhood trick-or-treating is generally the evening of Oct. 31.

Spooky happenings across the county

There are many Halloween events sponsored by Fairfax County parks, libraries and other departments. Here are a few to consider:

• Burke Lake Ghost Train Oct. 29 and 30
• Historic All Hallows’ Eve Celebration Set at Sully
• Tickle Your Funny Bone or Hop Aboard a Halloween Wagon Ride
• Time to Tackle Your Fears at Two Halloween Events in the Parks
• Spooky Events Await at Twin Lakes Golf Tournament
• Not-So-Spooky Halloween Activities on Tap at Colvin Run Mill
• Halloween Events at the Library Oct. 18-31
• Meowloween at the Animal Shelter Oct. 29
• Visit Fairfax Calendar of Halloween Events

Costume safety tips:

• Make sure trick-or-treaters can be seen by wearing something reflective or carrying a flashlight or glow stick.
• Make sure your child’s Halloween costume is made with fire-retardant materials and has eye holes large enough for your child to safely see out of.
• The costume should be short enough so it doesn’t interfere with walking.
• If your child carries an accessory, such as a fake sword, make sure it’s made from a flexible material such as rubber, so it cannot injure your child or others.
• Consider using makeup on children’s faces instead of a mask to allow the child to see clearly.

Trick-or-treating safety tips:

• Children should only visit homes that have their porch lights on.
• Inspect your children’s candy before they eat it — especially for any food allergies.
• Make sure children know their phone number and address — and to provide this information to a police officer in an emergency or if lost.
• Stay on sidewalks and avoid walking in streets, if possible. Cross streets only at the corner, and never cross between parked vehicles or mid-block.
• And when trick-or-treating, use battery-powered lights, keep your devices charged and pick a place to meet if you get lost.

Safety tips for older ghosts:

• Drive below the posted speed limit in residential areas on Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31. This will give you time to brake if you see a child dart in front of you.
• When giving candy, consider treats without nuts and other common food allergens. Here are some quick Halloween food safety tips.
• Don’t drink and drive if you’re celebrating over the Halloween weekend! Designate a driver or call SoberRide at 1-800-200-TAXI; free rides Saturday, Oct. 29.

Photo: Patch file