Make wishtv.com your home page

Trick-or-treating still on in Indy despite wet, cold forecast

Indy trick-or-treating still on despite wet, cold forecast

News 8's Jenny Dreasler reports

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — With wet, cold weather on the way, some communities in central Indiana are opting to move or reschedule trick-or-treating to the weekend.

But what about Indianapolis? City officials say they are monitoring the weather.

As of Wednesday evening, Halloween trick-or-treating was still on as scheduled from 6-8 p.m. Thursday across the city. People downtown had mixed feelings about what should be done to trick-or-treating hours with inclement weather on the way.

“I don’t see anything wrong with keeping it on the same day. So if we miss it, what are you going to do next? Reschedule Christmas because it gets too snowy out? ‘Sorry, kids, Santa Claus couldn’t make it,’” said Indianapolis resident Devon Walton.

Trick-or-treating still on in Indy despite wet, cold forecast

Trick-or-treating still on in Indy despite wet, cold forecast

“I don’t know, depending on the weather, how people feel about their children going out in frigid temperatures. It’s going to be really cold. You have to dress them really warm. You have got to be mindful of the cold. It’s a pretty ‘rock and hard place’ question,” said Indianapolis resident Naomi Montgomery.

“I like the tradition. I think Halloween should be on the 31st because that’s just how we grew up,” said Brittany Wright.

At least five other area cities — including Muncie, Marion and Pendleton — have already moved trick-or-treating from Thursday to the weekend, on a November date, ahead of the expected weather.

Storm Track 8 meteorologist Tara Hastings said during trick-or-treating hours we can expect to see some flurries, wind gusts up to 30 mph and windchills in the upper 20s.

Office Genae Cook with Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s public affairs division says making the decision to keep or change trick-or-treat hours is a fluid one and could change at any time.

“We think about the safety of everybody first, so if inclement weather moves in that’s a little more than what we expected, the city could take that opportunity to change days or change time,” Cook said.

Even with trick-or-treating on the line, people downtown agreed, the sweetness of safety comes first over any kind of candy.

“With some precaution I think the kids can still have fun, and I think the city should just make sure it’s not anything too risky,” said Indianapolis resident Niharika Narain.

The last time Indy moved trick-or-treat hours due to weather was in 2013.

The Office of Public Health and Safety advised families to exercise caution when making Halloween plans and follow these safety tips on Thursday night:

  • Residents are encouraged to pay attention to alerts and forecasts, dress in layers, and be prepared for the potential for wet and cold weather. With wind chills that may reach as low as 30 degrees, be prepared to take frequent breaks inside and have a plan to move trick-or-treating indoors, such as to a local trunk or treat.
  • Wind gusts may reach near 35 mph. Bring inside or secure loose outdoor items, including Halloween decorations.
  • Incorporate weather-resistant clothing and bright colors or reflective tape into costumes. Bring a flashlight as overcast weather may limit visibility, even in daylight hours. Adults should accompany young children and children with special needs.
  • Examine treats before allowing children to eat them. If you find a suspicious item, contact police as soon as possible at 317-327-3811. If injury is involved, dial 911.
  • With limited visibility expected, motorists are asked to slow down and be aware of their surroundings on Halloween night. Motorists are also reminded that just 6 inches of fast-moving water can be dangerous – turn around, don’t drown.

Residents can receive treats from their neighborhood firefighters at all Indianapolis Fire Department stations from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, as well as from these IMPD districts at these locations and times:

  • Southeast District at SE Headquarters, 1150 Shelby St., 3-7 p.m.
  • Southwest District at Decatur Township Fire Station 71, 5410 S. High School Road, 5-8 p.m.
  • Downtown District at Monument Circle, 1 Monument Circle, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • Northwest District at Pike High School, 5410 W. 71st St., 5-7 p.m. Oct. 30.

City staff members told News 8 they will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide additional updates as necessary.