When To Trick-Or-Treat In Alexandria, Safety Tips To Know

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Trick-or-treating doesn't have a set time in many Northern Virginia communities, which means you can expect little ghosts and ghouls to show up to your doorstep on the evening of Halloween.

That applies to the City of Alexandria, where families typically trick-or-treat on Halloween. This year, Halloween falls on Tuesday, Oct. 31.

One of the popular trick-or-treat locations is South Lee Street in Old Town's southeast quadrant. Homes there typically have fun displays and plenty of candy.

If you live within a homeowners association or apartment complex, check with them on trick-or-treat times, as they may be different from Oct. 31.

Alexandria Police will have an increased presence on Halloween to enforce traffic laws and keep trick-or-treaters safe.

Here are some safety tips the city recommends for trick-or-treating:

For Trick-or-Treaters

• Go only to well-lit houses and remain on porches rather than entering houses.
• Travel in small groups and be accompanied by an adult.
• Know your phone number and carry cell phones for emergency telephone calls.
• Have names and addresses attached to costumes.
• Bring treats home before eating them so parents can inspect them.
• Use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid or sharp.
• 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.
• Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame retardant.
• 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.
• Be reminded to look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.

For Supervising Adults

• Supervise the outing for children under age 12.
• Establish a curfew (a return time) for older children.
• 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.
• Inspect all candy for safety before children eat it.
• 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.

For Drivers

• Drive slowly.
• Watch for children in the street and on medians.
• Exit driveways and alleyways carefully.