Cincinnati considering only trick-or-treating on weekends
The city of Cincinnati is considering making trick-or-treating a weekend-only activity to keep children safer.
Council members Liz Keating, Reggie Harris, Scotty Johnson and Meeka Owens filed a motion Wednesday to move the popular candy-centric activity to early evening hours on a weekend since it gives more access to parents and guardians while avoiding rush hour traffic.
The city traditionally observes trick-or-treating on Halloween between 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., local time, which the council says creates visibility and safety issues since the sun sets earlier in the fall.
MORE: Why do we say 'trick or treat' on Halloween?
“Moving the time one or two hours earlier would provide daylight and visibility for all; adding significant safety measures for our children and youth throughout the 52 neighborhoods in our city,” The council members said in their motion.
Pedestrian fatalities are 43% higher on Halloween than on other days, according to a study from Jama Network.
Children between 4 to 8 years old see a 10-fold increase in pedestrian deaths on Halloween, the study said.
Last year, the Cincinnati Police Department released tips to keep people safe for Halloween, which includes:
•An adult should always accompany young children while they are out trick-or-treating.
•Older kids who do not need an adult should always trick-or-treat in groups.
•Make sure you choose bright-colored costumes for your kids and give them things such as glowsticks or flashlights to use when the sun sets.
• Make sure you use the sidewalk whenever possible and walk in well-lit areas.
• Teach your kids never to enter a stranger’s home.
•Always check your child’s candy before letting them consume any.
•If you are driving during Halloween, use extreme caution while on the roadways. Watch for excited children out trick-or-treating or those whose vision may be obstructed by a costume.
Cincinnati considering only trick-or-treating on weekends originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
