Medford Halloween Trick-or-Treating Tips For Families

MEDFORD, MA — Although there has been talk in some communities of designating the last Saturday in October the official "trick-or-treating day," Medford will hold trick-or-treating on the regular Oct. 31 holiday.

The sun will set at 5:39 p.m. on Oct. 31, which means that the bulk of trick-or-treating will happen at night. Keep in mind the following safety tips from the CDC, courtesy of the city of Medford.

• Costume accessories, such as swords and knives, should be small and made of flexible and soft materials.
• Avoid going out to ask for candy alone. Go out in groups or with a trusted adult.
• Put phosphorescent tape on costumes and candy bags so car drivers can see you.
• Check the sweets before eating them for damage and to avoid the danger of suffocation. Do not eat too many goodies.
• Take a flashlight when you go out to ask for candy so you can see around you and others can see you. Always WALK and do not run from house to house.
• Before applying makeup, try it first on a small area. Take it off before bed to prevent a
• possible irritation of the eyes and skin.
• Look in both directions before crossing the street. Remember to cross the streets through the designated areas.
• Do not wear colored or patterned contact lenses to avoid serious eye injuries.
• Walk only on the sidewalks or, if you have to walk on the street, do it as close as possible to the sidewalk always looking in the direction of traffic.
• Wear masks, costumes and shoes that fit you well so you can see better and avoid trips and falls.
• Only eat sweets that come packed from the factory. Don't eat sweets made by people you don't know.
• Do not enter another person's house unless a trusted adult accompanies you. Only visit houses that are well lit. Do not go to dark houses. Never get in the car of a person you don't know.
• Never walk near burning candles or lanterns. Be sure to wear fire resistant costumes.