JAMESTOWN – Thousands of Jamestown’s resident ghosts, ghouls, goblins and superheroes will be haunting city streets tonight as another Halloween takes place.
Local hours for trick or treating vary by community. The city-wide Halloween Fun-Fest will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the former Allen Park Ice Rink.
Trick-or-Treat hours for area communities are as follows:
5-7 p.m.: Ashville, Cassadaga, Chautauqua, Ellington, Gerry, Kennedy, Mayville and Poland.
5-8 p.m.: Carroll and Frewsburg.
5:30-7 p.m.: Ellicott and Falconer.
5:30-7:30 p.m.: Harmony and Panama.
5:30-8 p.m.: Celoron.
6-8 p.m.: Bemus Point, Busti, Jamestown and Lakewood.
For those who don’t want to take their little ones door-to-door, the Halloween Fun-Fest offers an alternative. There is no charge for the event, which is for children ages 12 and under. People older than 12 must be accompanied by a child and children younger than age 6 must be accompanied by an adult.
Officials offer several safety tips to keep Halloween fun and participants safe. For those on foot, it is suggested to cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look both ways before crossing. Experts say not to use electronic devices such as phones while walking and especially while crossing streets. Officials suggest teaching children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Always use sidewalks and paths. If there are no sidewalks, experts suggest walking facing traffic and keep as far left as possible. Also, they say to teach children to never dash into street or from between two parked cars.
Always have a responsible adult with the youngsters, especially after dusk, officials said. Those responsible enough to be out without supervision are advised to use familiar routes in familiar areas that are well lighted and to trick-or-treat in groups.
Costume safety is also important. Experts suggest decorating costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, to choose light colors. They also say face paint and makeup are safer than masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision and breathing. Youths are advised to carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers. Select a costume that fits accordingly to prevent falls.
Drivers are also cautioned to take extra care this Halloween. Drivers are told to slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Taking a little extra time at intersections, medians and curbs will also avoid mishaps. Drivers are asked to enter or exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully and to eliminate distractions while driving. It is recommended drivers take extra time to look for children at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
More than 179 million Americans are expected to take part in various Halloween events this year, spending more than 9.1 billion dollars nationally.