Halloween Trick-Or-Treat Hours, Curfew In Manchester

MANCHESTER, NJ — Halloween brings with it talk of ghouls and goblins ... and of the fun of trick-or-treating and Mischief Night.

Manchester Township has a curfew for minors for the days around Halloween. Parents are reminded that kids under 18 cannot be out past 10 p.m. without a parent or guardian unless they are coming home from work, a school event, an organized sports activity or a religious function.

Trick-or-treating in Manchester is on Halloween from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m.

(Some confusion arises because neighboring Toms River holds its trick-or-treating on Oct. 30 to avoid conflict with the Toms River Fire Company 1 Halloween Parade, which is held on Halloween. Manchester does not follow that schedule.)

Parents and guardians are reminded of these safety tips:

• Accompany young children in the neighborhood and identify your surroundings.
• Teach your children to look both ways before crossing the street.
• Only approach homes that have a porch light on.
• Never enter a stranger's home or a vehicle for any treats.
• Stay on sidewalks.
• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective, short enough to prevent tripping and do not obstruct vision.
• Carry a flashlight so you can be seen by others.
• Be cautious of animals and strangers.
• Never eat unwrapped food items or open beverages.
• Notify Law Enforcement immediately of any sign of suspicious or illegal activity.

Parents are reminded to check their children's candy for foreign substances and choking hazards.