By Gari Voss
As Halloween is upon us, families plan their evening of Trick-or-Treat excursions. In addition to corn mazes and walks through the woods, communities and organizations are planning for Trick-or-Treat or Trunk-n-Treat.
The optimum words are BE SAFE. Some safety checks to make no matter if you decide to visit homes in the neighborhood, Trunk-or-Treat, go to a haunted house or other large gatherings:
- Travel in groups;
- Watch for vehicles and use crosswalks and sidewalks when available;
- Make sure you are visible – flashlights are a great accessory for any costume;
- Walk in well-lit areas;
- Only visit homes with lights on and never enter a stranger’s home;
- Wait to eat any candy until a parent can inspect it. If you suspect any tampering with candy, please notify your police department immediately.
The City of Allegan:
Downtown Businesses – 3-5:30pm
Residential trick-or-treat 5:30-8pm
Wear costumes appropriate for the weather and safe for walking; only knock on doors with a porch light on; always walk on the sidewalk or paths and look both ways when crossing streets; never trick-or-treat alone; BE SAFE.
Allegan Bible Church – 5-7pm –Trunk & Treat. 412 Sherman St., Allegan
City of Otsego
No designated time, but everyone must follow curfew laws.
City of Plainwell
No designated time on Oct. 31.
City of Fennville
The District Library will host Trick-or-Treat from 5-8pm along with a craft for all ages and an escape room for those 10 yrs. and up.
Trick-or-Treat at homes with the porch light lit from 5-8pm. Be Safe!
Wayland – Halloween at Henika Library
9am-6pm: Spooky movies and warm beverages will be available.
In the “olden days”, there were often neighborhood watch teams who not only helped trick-or-treaters but ensured that young people did not damage private property, public property like restrooms, and special areas like cemeteries. Keeping a watchful eye out for children enjoying the holiday and for young people considering otherwise can be extremely helpful in every community.
Have a fun, safe Halloween!
