The city of Roanoke Rapids will observe Halloween on Saturday, October 30 with free outdoor events until 7 p.m. and citywide trick-or-treating encouraged from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The police department and parks and recreation department will host the following free outdoor events on October 30:
Trunk-or-treat at Doyle Field
4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
No tricks, just treats at the annual trunk-or-treat event.
If your business or community organization would like to participate by decorating your vehicle and passing out candy, please contact Tina May or Chief Bobby Martin at 252-533-2810 to reserve your spot.
Call the parks and recreation department at 252-533-2847 Extension 3 for more event information.
Halloween party at Chaloner Recreation Center
5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The first Halloween Party at Chaloner Recreation Center will include food, games, treats and crafts all outdoors.
Call 252-533-2847 Extension 2 for more information.
The police department strongly encourages Halloween trick-or-treating activities to take place on October 30 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Households that do not wish to participate in trick-or-treating should shut off outdoor lights between the recommended times. Trick-or-treaters are asked to be respectful of homes that are not hosting visitors.
“Once again this year, area residents are encouraged to take appropriate health and safety precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19,” the city said.
Additionally, the city encourages parents and guardians to share the following Halloween safety tips with their children:
Walk safely
Cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks when possible.
Look left, right and left again when crossing.
Put electronic devices down and keep heads up to remain alert.
Walk, don’t run.
Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.
Trick-or-treat with an adult
Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If older kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, remind them to stick to familiar areas that are well-lit.
Keep costumes safe
Wear costumes that are flame-resistant, bright and reflective.
Choose non-toxic face paint and makeup over full-face masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
Ensure proper fit to avoid tripping hazards.
Drive with caution on Halloween
Slow down and be alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
Enter and exit driveways and alleyways slowly and carefully.
Eliminate distractions inside your vehicle, especially the use of smartphones, so you can always concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
“Although the City of Roanoke Rapids will officially recognize Halloween on Saturday, October 30th, we understand that some residents may choose to still celebrate on Sunday, October 31st. We encourage our citizens to always be safe and respectful of others. We wish you a spooktacular Halloween.”
For more Halloween safety tips, visit www.safekids.org.