Villages set trick-or-treat hours for Halloween
AAA offers safety tips from pranksters
Photo by Tom Rivers: These grownups joined children in costumes on Friday during the Beggar’s Night celebration in downtown Medina. The village has set 5:30 to 7:30 for trick-or-treating later todayThe four villages in Orleans County all have set trick-or-treating hours for Halloween. Medina will have kids out in costume from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The Village of Medina has set trick-or-tricking from 5:30 to 7:30, while in Albion the designated time is 5:30 to 8 p.m.
The villages of Holley and Lyndonville have set 6 to 8 p.m. for trick-or-treating.
AAA has issued the following safety tips for the community:
Prepare for pranksters
Vehicles are nearly twice as likely to be vandalized on Halloween as on an average day, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute.
To avoid having your car egged or even stolen, park it in a secure garage or a safe, well-lit area. Double check that car doors are locked and windows are up. Arm your car alarm if you have one.
Look out for black cats, blind spots and Batman
Drive slowly and be on the lookout for creatures that can come out of nowhere. Turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances. Don’t hesitate to use your horn if you’re concerned that trick-or-treaters may not see you coming. Never drink and drive.
Provided photo: The Rev. Randy LeBaron, with Batman hat and shirt, poses for a picture with kids at the Albion Free Methodist Church on Friday. About 400 kids stopped by the church during Beggar’s Night for games and candy.
Light up the night
Generous lighting outside of your home keeps the creeps away while providing safe passage to party guests and trick-or-treaters. Keep walkways and stairs clear of debris and make sure they’re well-lit to avoid slips, trips and falls.
Follow safe pumpkin protocol
Keep candles, lit jack-o-lanterns, matches and lighters where children can’t reach. Celebrants in unwieldy costumes – or masks that limit sight – are particularly at risk of brushing against open flames. Use flameless candles if possible.
Beware the brew
Keep a close eye on your guests. Depending on your local laws, you could be liable for injuries they cause to themselves or others while still at your party or driving home. Serve non-alcoholic beverages and food along with your preferred potion. Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the party ends.
“Property vandalism and injuries tend to spike on Halloween night,” said Steve Seitz, Insurance manager, AAA Western and Central New York. “It’s important to make sure you’re covered for whatever hijinks might occur.”
