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Halloween Trick-or-Treat Times, Safety and Tips

Archived News Release: October 21, 2015 - ​​Halloween trick-or-treating in Ann Arbor neighborhoods will take place 5–8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31 for participating residents.

​While Halloween is the night for treats and fun, unfortunately there is also the risk of injury due to auto accidents, fires, falls or tainted treats. Ann Arbor police and fire departments remind parents to be aware and be informed so children can have a safe, enjoyable Halloween. Trick-or-treaters should be supervised at all times, and stay in neighborhoods that are well-lit and familiar. Here are more reminders to help keep your Halloween happy.​

  • Be aware that dusk is the time of poorest visibility for drivers.

  • Choose a costume that is easy to walk in, easy to see out of and is visible to motorists.

  • Wear a light-colored costume, and/or use reflective tape on the costume.

  • Billowing costumes and flowing wigs are dangerous around an open flame, including candles in jack-o-lanterns.

  • Wigs and costumes should be made of non-flammable materials.

  • Loose costumes, oversized bags or unsafe shoes can cause falls or accidents.

  • Masks reduce vision. If wearing a mask, choose one that is cool, comfortable and doesn't restrict vision. Take off the mask before crossing the street.

  • Use a flashlight. It makes children more visible and lights their way.

  • Sharp or pointed objects are unsafe.

  • An adult should always inspect collected candy and treats for potential poisoning or foreign objects.

  • Unpackaged items such as popcorn or small candies should be discarded.

  • Candy with loose or torn wrappings should be discarded.

  • If yo​u discover anything wrong with the treats brought home, report it to law enforcement so that other parents may be warned and the situation investigated by police. In Ann Arbor, call police services at 734.994.2911.​​

​​To help ensure our neighborhoods are safe, Friday and Saturday, Oct. 30 and 31, Washtenaw County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteer members along with Washtenaw County Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) will be conducting safety patrols throughout the city 5–11 p.m. CERT and RACES team member vehicles will be clearly identified with rotating yellow lights and Halloween patrol and CERT magnets. While fun will be top of mind this Halloween, safety should be, too!

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Media Contact Information

Lisa Wondrash
Communications Unit Manager
734.794.6152
[email protected]


Ann Arbor has 123,851 residents, spans 28.97 square miles and is frequently recognized as a foremost place to live, learn, work, thrive and visit. To keep up with City of Ann Arbor information, subscribe for email updates, and follow the city on Twitter and Facebook. The city's mission is to deliver exceptional services that sustain and enhance a vibrant, safe and diverse community.