Dupage Policy Journal

Trick-or-treating in Wheaton will take place from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, October 31, according to an announcement from the City of Wheaton. The city is encouraging drivers to be especially careful during these hours to help keep children safe.

The Wheaton Police Department has issued several recommendations for families and children participating in Halloween activities. They advise trick-or-treaters to stay on one side of the street at a time and avoid crossing between parked cars or in the middle of the block. For those out after dark, wearing light-colored clothing, adding reflective tape to costumes and treat bags, and carrying a flashlight are recommended safety measures.

Costumes should be non-flammable and fit properly. The police department suggests using face paint or makeup instead of masks that can obstruct vision. Children are encouraged to go out with friends in groups, and younger children should always be accompanied by an adult or responsible teenager.

The department also reminds parents to plan routes ahead of time within their immediate neighborhood and to know who their children are with. Children should not enter any residence or vehicle for any reason while trick-or-treating.

Other safety tips include walking on sidewalks whenever possible, or if there are none, staying next to the curb facing traffic in single file. Trick-or-treaters are asked to respect others’ property during their rounds.

Homeowners who wish to participate should leave porch lights on; those who do not want visitors can turn off exterior lights or post a “no trick-or-treating here” sign.

In addition, Downtown Wheaton will host a special trick-or-treating event organized by the Downtown Wheaton Association on Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., where local businesses will welcome children for early festivities.

"Trick-or-treat on one side of the street at a time. Refrain from crossing the street in the middle of the block or between parked cars.

Trick-or-treat while it is light outside. If you must be out after dark, wear light-colored clothing, put reflective tape on your costume and treat bag, and carry a flashlight.

Dress children in non-flammable costumes that fit properly. Avoid wearing facial masks, which obstruct vision. Use face paint and makeup instead.

Trick-or-treat with friends and stay in a group.

An adult or responsible teen should accompany younger children at all times.

Advise children not to enter any residence or vehicle for the promise of anything.

Plan your trick-or-treat routes ahead of time, staying in your immediate neighborhood. Parents, take notice of whom your children are with and the routes they are taking.

Always walk on the sidewalk while trick-or-treating. If there is no sidewalk, keep to the left, next to the curb, and walk single file facing (against) traffic.

Be courteous and respectful of others’ property.

Homeowners should leave outside porch lights on. If you do not want trick-or-treaters to visit your home, turn off your exterior lights, and/or place a “no trick-or-treating here” sign on your door."