ALL TREATS, NO TRICKS
Rain could dampen Halloween night,
Trick-or-treating can be scary business when you think about it: wandering through neighborhoods in the dark, demanding candy at strangers’ doorsteps.
So here are six things you can do to make it a safer Halloween:
1. Be visible at night
Plan costumes that are bright and reflective or consider adding reflective tape to costumes and bags for greater visibility. Take a flashlight.
2. Have a plan
Know your route, stay in a group and communicate where you’re going. Review with children how to call 911 or another number if they become lost or have an emergency.
3. Stick to lighted areas
Don’t stop at dark houses, remain on well-lighted streets, and always use the sidewalk. Never enter a home or a car for a treat. Notify law enforcement of any suspicious activity.
4. Watch out for cars
Cross the street at only crosswalks; never cross between parked cars or out of driveways. Don’t assume the right of way. Drivers will have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. And don’t expect every car to stop.
5. Create a welcoming porch
Remove tripping hazards such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations. Replace burned-out bulbs, and sweep away wet leaves from sidewalks and steps. Restrain pets so they don’t bark at, jump on or bite trick-or-treaters.
6. Stay warm and dry
The Austin area has an 80 percent chance of rain after sundown, with temperatures around 60 degrees.