Trick or Treating in the City of Franklin will be held on October 31, 2017 from 4:00 - 8:00 pm.

Safety Tips for Motorists:

• Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
• At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.

Safety Tips for Costumes:

• All costumes, wigs and accessories should be fire-resistant.
• If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags to make sure they are visible.
• When buying Halloween makeup, make sure it is nontoxic and always test it in a small area first.
• Remove all makeup before children go to bed to prevent skin and eye irritation.
• Should be flame-resistant.
• Should have masks that don't obstruct your kids' vision.
• have headdresses don't cover their ears.
• Should fit well (so they will not trip).
• Have props (swords or knives) that are made of soft materials.

Safety Tips for Trick or Treaters:

• Make sure older children take friends and stay together while trick-or-treating.
• Never send younger children out alone – they should be with a parent, guardian, or another trusted adult.
• Always walk younger children to the door to receive treats.
• Don’t let children enter a home unless you are with them.
• Be sure children do not approach any vehicle, occupied or not, unless you are with them.
• Choose bright costumes, and have children carry flashlights or glow sticks so they are easily visible.  (Hint – Try adding reflective tape to costumes and candy bags!)
• Plan a trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets.
• Make sure children know your cellphone number, their home telephone number, and address in case you get separated. Consider giving them a cellphone so they can reach you easily.
• Teach children how to call 911 in an emergency.
• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds.
• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you.
• Agree on a specific time when children should return home.
• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.

 Teach children to say “NO!” in a loud voice if someone tries to get them to go somewhere, accept anything other than a treat, or leave with them. Tell them to try everything they can to escape, including yelling, hitting, and kicking.