With Halloween approaching, the Linton Police Department is encouraging families to plan for a fun and safe celebration. Officers will provide additional patrols on Thursday, October 30, and Friday, October 31, from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m.—the community’s official trick-or-treat hours.

Chief of Police Paul F. Clark reminds families that Halloween can be exciting for children of all ages—and even a few spirited adults—but it’s important to stay alert and follow key safety guidelines.

Safety on the Streets

Adult supervision is a must. Young children should always be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult carrying flashlights with fresh batteries.
Plan the route. Older children who go out alone should review their path with an adult and agree on a set time to return home.
See and be seen. Use reflective tape on costumes and trick-or-treat bags and carry a cellphone for quick communication. Walk on well-lit sidewalks and, if no sidewalk is available, stay to the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
Cross carefully. Only cross at established crosswalks and never between parked cars or out of driveways. Don’t assume drivers see you—even if one car stops, others might not.

For Residents Handing Out Treats

Homeowners can help by turning on porch lights, clearing porches and yards of tripping hazards such as garden hoses, toys, or bikes, and sweeping away wet leaves or snow. Check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs. Pets should be secured so they don’t jump on or scare trick-or-treaters. The department also suggests offering non-food treats like small coloring books or pencils to accommodate children with food allergies.

Healthy Halloween Habits

Before heading out, parents are encouraged to serve a hearty meal, so children aren’t tempted to overindulge in candy. Adults should inspect all treats and discard anything unwrapped or suspicious. To avoid stomachaches—and preserve the fun—ration candy over the following days and weeks. Children should politely decline homemade items like cupcakes or brownies unless they come from someone the family knows well.

Spookfest

In addition to trick-or-treating, families can enjoy Spookfest 2025 on Saturday, October 25 at Humphreys Park. Details will be posted on the Carnegie Heritage and Arts Center’s Facebook page.

Chief Clark emphasized that extra patrols will be out during the designated hours to keep everyone safe. “Halloween is a special time for our community,” he said. “With a little planning and awareness, we can make sure it stays both fun and safe for everyone.”