Trick-or-Treating in Western Springs is from 3 to 8 p.m. on Halloween

The following information is from the Village of Western Springs website. Image via shutterstock.

From carving pumpkins and adorning your home with spooky decorations; to dressing your kids in costumes and taking them trick-or-treating; Halloween is a fun and exciting time for the whole family, but it can also be equally dangerous. Use the following Halloween safety tips to ensure that your scary celebrations are safe.

Remain on sidewalks—From filling an entire bag or pillowcase with candy, to staying out past their bedtimes, Halloween is a thrilling night for kids, and their excitement leaves them more likely to run into the street. Although it would be comforting to think that every driver on Halloween is a safe driver, the truth is that you can never be sure, so it’s best to keep children on the sidewalk to ensure their safety.

Travel in groups—The bigger the group—the better. Travel in groups with neighbors and friends on well-lighted streets. Always being sure to avoid spaces in between cars and cutting through yards.

Inspect all candy—Although your child may be anxious to begin eating goodies as soon as he/she begins collecting them, it’s
important to conduct a thorough inspection of the candy before allowing your child to consume it and dispose of anything
suspicious.

Keep your house well-lighted inside and outside—A well-lighted home will protect against damage to your property and
allow trick-or-treaters to safely walk to your doorstep. Keep your pets inside and away from the excitement. There is always a
possibility your pet could bite a visitor. Sometimes, pets get excited and run away.

Don’t be easy targets—When you step away for some trick-or-treating fun, make sure you lock all windows and doors and
shut your garage door. Lock your vehicle even in your own driveway. An unlocked vehicle many times contains a garage door
opener.

Keep an eye on your neighbor’s house—Do not hesitate to report any mischief or suspicious activity to the Western Springs
Police Department immediately by calling 708-246-8540 or in an emergency dial 9-1-1.

Trick-or-treating hours on Halloween are from 3 to 8 p.m. Halloween is a favorite holiday among parents and children alike, and keeping these Halloween safety tips in mind will allow your family to have a fun, exciting, and most importantly, safe evening. The Western Springs Police Department will be providing additional visible patrol.