News Article

Archived News Release: October 21, 2016 - ​Trick-or-treat times in Ann Arbor neighborhoods will take place 5–8 p.m. on Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31, for residents who wish to participate. Trick-or-treaters should be supervised at all times, and should stay in neighborhoods that are well-lit and familiar. Here are more reminders to help keep your Halloween happy.

• Be aware that dusk is the time of poorest visibility for drivers.
  

• Choose a costume that is easy to walk in, easy to see out of and is visible to motorists.
  

• Wear a light-colored costume, and/or use reflective tape on the costume.
  

• Billowing costumes and flowing wigs are dangerous around an open flame, including candles in jack-o-lanterns.
  

• Wigs and costumes should be made of non-flammable materials.
  

• Loose costumes, oversized bags or unsafe shoes can cause falls or accidents.
  

• Masks reduce vision. If wearing a mask, choose one that is "breathable," comfortable and doesn't restrict vision. Take off the mask before crossing the street.
  

• Use a flashlight. It creates greater visibility and lights the way.
  

• Sharp or pointed objects are unsafe.
  

• An adult should always inspect collected candy and treats for potential tampering, poisoning or foreign objects.
  

• Unpackaged items such as popcorn or small candies should be discarded.
  

• Candy with loose or torn wrappings should be discarded.
  

• If you discover anything wrong with the treats brought home, report it to law enforcement so that other parents may be warned and the situation investigated by police. In Ann Arbor, call police services at 734.994.2911.
  

Volunteer patrols add an extra emphasis on safety

Oct. 30 (7–11 p.m.) and Oct. 31 (6–11 p.m.), Washtenaw County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members, along with Washtenaw County Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), will be conducting safety patrols throughout the city. CERT and RACES team member vehicles will be clearly identified with rotating yellow lights and "Halloween patrol" and "CERT" signs.

More fall fun in store

Fall-themed and Halloween events are taking place in Ann Arbor throughout October. Check out these fun ways to celebrate the season:

• Third annual Olson Dog Park Happy Howl-a-ween Dog Party, Monday, Oct. 24, 5–6 p.m. Dog treats and fun are in store for your best friend. Costumes are encouraged, and a contest will select the best and most creative. Entry is free. An annual permit is required for access to the designated off-leash areas. Dog park permits/tags and licenses are on sale in the Ann Arbor City Clerk's office 8 a.m.–5 p.m. weekdays.
  

• Halloween at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday, Oct. 29, noon–2 p.m. Games, pumpkin decorating and other festivities are planned in celebration of the harvest season. Children are encouraged to wear their costumes! 
  

• Halloween Skate at Veterans Memorial Park Indoor Ice Arena. Saturday, Oct. 29, 1–2:30 p.m. Skate to the spooky sounds of Halloween. Costumes are welcome, and prizes will be given out to the best dressed.
  

• Animal Haunts at Leslie Science & Nature Center, Saturday, Oct. 29, 6–8 p.m. Children ages 5–12 and their families can celebrate Halloween with LSNC's non-scary Animal Haunts. Take a guided hike through Black Pond Woods, where costumed interpreters bring plants and animals to life by sharing natural history facts and stories. There will be festive fun with harvest crafts, a hay jump and more. Come in costume! Registration is required. 
  

Additional information on these events can be found in the parks and recreation program guide. * If you are interested in volunteering at this event, please email the Ann Arbor Give 365 volunteer program or call 734.794.6445 between 9 a.m.–4 p.m. weekdays.

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