Trunk or Treat events held throughout the city

  • contributed photo
    contributed photo

    It’s that time of the year when trick or treaters will be this coming Tuesday, Oct. 31 and motorists as well as those out trick or treating are reminded to take extra precaution in being safe while out enjoying Halloween activities.

    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), Halloween is considered the most dangerous day of the year for child pedestrians.

    The NHTSA reports on average over two times (5.5) as many child pedestrians die on Halloween as compared to other days of the year (2.2).

    In most areas, including this area, “Trick or Treaters” are expected to generally be out between 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., so it is very important to practice good safety habits at this time.

    Motorists out driving at this time need to remember this is the dusk time of the day and visibility will be limited. Also motorists should be aware that children will be excited as they’re out enjoying the activities and may not pay attention to safety matters, such as crossing the roadways.

    Vehicle Safety:

    For motorists, who will be driving during the time of trick or treating, it is recommended:

    • Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.

    • Enter and exit driveways carefully

    • Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween evening.

    Parent Safety

    For parents, the National Safety Council (NSC) recommends:

    • Should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds.

    • For older children going alone, plan and review a route acceptable to you.

    • Agree on a specific time children should return home.

    • Teach your children to never enter a stranger’s home or car.

    • Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.

    • Inform your children to wait until they arrive home after trick-or-treating and you check the candy before eating it.

    • If possible, take a cell phone with you while trick-or-treating. However, put the electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don’t run across the street.

    Trick or Treaters

    • Cross streets at intersections or crosswalks.

    • When crossing a street, do not assume you have the rightof-way. The motorists may not be able to see you.

    • Wear costumes that are bright in color with some type of reflective material, or consider carrying a flashlight or glow stick to go with the costume.

    • Choose a mask that will not limit or block your eyesight and consider non-toxic makeup.

    • Respect other people’s property.

    • Lastly, be sure to say thank you when receiving treats and have a fun, safe and enjoyable Halloween.

    Community Trick or Treat

    Although many trick or treaters will be stopping at residential areas, a number of organizations have reported they will be participating in Trunk or Treat events on Halloween.

    Those reporting include:

    • Flamingo Fro Yo will be hosting its 4th annual Trunk or Treat from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. with locations set up around the outer ring of the Courthouse Square. Michelle Lanni, organizer of the event, said if you or your business would like to participate in handing out or donating candy, to please call or text her at (361) 772-0540. In addition to the Trunk or Treat events occurring on the Square, other businesses and organizations will be hosting events at their locations including:

    • St. Peter Lutheran Church from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at its Second St. parking lot.

    • Hodgepodge Fair Trade Market and Gathering Co. will from 5 to 7 p.m. at its location on N. La Grange St.

    • Grafe Chevrolet GMC from 5 to 7 p.m at its business location on Fairwinds.

    • Sacred Heart Catholic School along with Sweet Chic Boutique will hold a Trunk or Treat from 5 to 7 p.m. at the school.

    • Sandy’s Wingz and Thingz at 140 Auction Ring Road will hold a Trunk or Treat from 5 to 7 p.m.

    • The First Baptist Church will also hold a Trunk or Treat at the church on Second St.

    During the hours of the events, Hallettsville City secretary/ administrator, Grace Ward, said Second St. from N. Ridge St. (Hallettsville High School) to Hwy 77 N (N. Texana St.) will be closed to vehicle parking from 5 to 8 p.m. Be safe and enjoy the evening.