Trick-or-treating to go as planned in Beverly

Saturday's snowstorm did not throw a wrench into Beverly's trick-or-treating plans. 

Citywide trick-or-treating will occur from tonight 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The Beverly Police Department is asking all residents to consider the following safety tips to ensure safe trick-or-treating for all residents:

Trick-or-Treaters

• Carry a flashlight.

• Walk, don’t run.

• Stay on sidewalks.

• Obey traffic signals.

• Stay in familiar neighborhoods.

• Do not cut across yards and driveways.

• Wear a watch that you can read in the dark.

• Make sure that costumes do not drag on the ground.

• Shoes should fit properly.

• Avoid wearing masks when going from house to house.

• Carry only flexible knives, swords, or other props. Be certain that they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

• If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.

• Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape.

• Approach only houses that are lit.

• Stay away from and do not pet animals that you don’t know.

Parents

• Your child should eat dinner before setting out to trick or treat.

• Younger children should be accompanied by an adult.

• Children should know how and where to reach you and when to be home.

• Know where your children are going.

• Costumes should be made of flame retardant material.

• Although tampering is very rare, inspect all candy before your child eats it.

• Carefully inspect all candy wrappers and discard those that look suspect.

• Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.

Homeowners

• Make sure that your yard is clear of ladders, hoses, dog leashes, flowerpots, and debris that can trip Trick-or-Treaters.

• Pets can get frightened at Halloween. Secure them inside of your residence to prevent injury to them and to Trick-or-Treaters.

• Battery powered jack-o-lantern lighting is preferred to candles.

• If you do use candles, place the pumpkin well away from where trick-or-treaters will be walking or standing.

• Make sure paper or cloth yard decorations won't be blown into a flaming candle.

• Consider healthy food alternatives and non-food treats for Trick-or-Treaters