City of Olean official trick-or-treat hours 6-8 p.m. Saturday

Official Halloween trick-or-treat hours in the City of Olean will be Saturday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Mayor Amy B. Sherburne and the City of Olean wish all residents, families and visitors a safe, fun and enjoyable Halloween. 

As children and families head out into the community, residents are encouraged to take a few extra precautions to help ensure everyone has a safe evening.

For Parents and Trick-or-Treaters:

• Walk with an adult: Young children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult. Older children should travel in groups, follow an agreed-upon route, and have a designated time to return home.
• Be visible: Choose bright-colored costumes when possible. Use reflective tape, glow sticks, or flashlights to help drivers see trick-or-treaters after dark.
• Choose safe costumes: Make sure costumes fit properly to prevent tripping. Use face paint or makeup when possible instead of masks that may restrict vision.
• Use sidewalks and crosswalks: Walk on sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic. Cross streets at corners and designated crosswalks and never dart between parked vehicles.
• Stay alert: Put away cell phones and avoid distractions when crossing streets. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing and never assume a vehicle has seen you.
• Inspect treats: Parents should check all candy and treats before children eat them. Discard any items that are unwrapped, damaged or appear suspicious. Children should not eat homemade treats from strangers unless parents know and trust the source.
• Stay in familiar areas: Visit well-lit homes and neighborhoods, and only approach homes displaying welcoming Halloween decorations or lights. Never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.

For Motorists:

• Drive slowly and remain especially alert in residential neighborhoods.
• Watch carefully for children crossing streets, walking between parked cars or entering roadways unexpectedly.
• Eliminate distractions and avoid using handheld devices while driving.
• Take extra care at intersections, driveways and crosswalks.

For Residents Welcoming Trick-or-Treaters:

• Turn on exterior lights to make walkways and entrances visible.
• Keep sidewalks, steps and walkways clear of decorations, cords, leaves and other tripping hazards.
• Secure pets to help prevent accidental escapes or unexpected encounters with visitors.
• Use battery-operated candles or other flameless lighting in pumpkins and decorations whenever possible.
• Consider offering non-food treats for children with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Halloween is a wonderful opportunity for families and neighbors to come together and enjoy the season, the mayor said. By looking out for one another, following safety precautions, and driving responsibly, we can help make the evening enjoyable for everyone.

The City of Olean encourages all residents to plan ahead, stay aware of their surroundings and make safety a priority throughout the evening.

The City of Olean wishes everyone a happy, healthy and safe Halloween!