When To Trick Or Treat, Safety Tips To Follow In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Trick or treat will bring plenty of little ghosts, goblins, princesses, superheroes and more around the neighborhood this Halloween.

While there have been numerous trunk or treat events scheduled around Alexandria, the City of Alexandria does not schedule an official time for trick or treat. The main trick-or-treat event is the evening of Halloween (Thursday, Oct. 31).

During this time, houses on several blocks of Lee Street typically host their popular Halloween night for families. Alexandria Police will close Lee Street from King Street to Franklin Street between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Oct. 31 to vehicular traffic.

Around the city, police will be present to help trick-or-treaters stay safe. Officers will enforce traffic violations such as speeding, stop sign violations and pedestrian crossings.

Alexandria Police recommend the following tips to stay safe on Halloween night:

For trick-or-treaters and parents:

• Children should go only to well-lit houses and remain on porches rather than entering houses.
• Children should travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult.
• Children should know their phone number and carry cell phones for emergency telephone calls.
• Have children's names and addresses attached to costumes.
• Bring treats home before eating them so parents can inspect them.
• Supervise the outing for children under age 12. Establish a curfew (a return time) for older children.
• Parents and adults should ensure the safety of pedestrian trick-or-treaters. Make sure children under age 10 are supervised as they cross the street.
• Have children get out of cars on the curb side, not on the traffic side.
• Use flashlights, stay on sidewalks, and avoid crossing yards.
• Cross streets at the corner, use crosswalks (where they exist), and do not cross between parked cars.
• Stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing.
• Be reminded to look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
• Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame retardant.
• Use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid or sharp.
• Consider using face paint instead of masks. Masks can obstruct a child's vision.
• Avoid wearing hats that will slide over their eyes.
• Avoid wearing long, baggy, or loose costumes or oversized shoes to prevent tripping.

For drivers/neighbors

• Prepare homes for trick-or-treaters by clearing porches, lawns, and sidewalks and by placing jack-o-lanterns away from doorways and landings.
• Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats to young children.
• Drive slowly.
• Watch for children in the street and on medians.
• Exit driveways and alleyways carefully.