Halloween In Horizon West

Stay Safe While Having Fun on Halloween Night!

Halloween is well celebrated in Horizon West! As an evolving community with many more neighborhoods still in the works along with others that were established over 20 years ago, it is amazing to see it continually develop.

Over the years, neighborhoods have started many traditions – decorating contests, Fall Festivals, Trunk-or-Treat events at the schools and churches, streets filled with children sporting their creative costumes, and pounds and pounds of treats – some even provide adult treats for the parents! You may have even participated or got a chance to see the Horizon West Golf Cart Club drive by during their annual Halloween Golf Cart Parade!

While there are many events in the weeks leading up to October 31st, the tradition of going door-to-door takes place on Halloween night, starting about an hour prior to sunset until later. Crowds tend to wrap up earlier on school nights and linger a bit longer when Halloween falls on a Friday or Saturday.

Here are some tips and reminders from the National Safety Council to help keep participants secure and safe while having fun!

TIPS FOR FAMILIES

• After dark, fasten reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes and bags for visibility; using flash lights to light the way on dark sideways to avoid trips and falls
• Opt for nontoxic Halloween makeup over masks, ensuring clear vision
• If your older children are out alone, ensure that you make a plan that you both agree to and ensure cell phones are fully charged before leaving the house
• Make sure all children travel in groups or with a responsible adult
• Remind all children to never enter a strangers home or car

REMINDERS

According to the National Safety Council, children are more than 2x as likely to be hit by a vehicle and killed on Halloween than ANY other day of the year. Lack of visibility is a big factor in these incidents.

• Watch for children walking on curbs, roadways, and in between cars
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully
• Watch for children in dark clothing
• Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween

Orange County Sheriff reminds us that popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for kids during those hours.

Have a happy and Healthy Halloween Horizon West!