Andrew Bliss, Capital Region Water; Ben Allatt, City Council; Destini Hodges, City Council; Wanda Williams, City Council; Captain Gabe Olivera, Police Department; Brian Enterline, Fire Chief
Get your Halloween costume ready, if it’s flame resistant, that is.
Harrisburg City Council will host a pre-trick or treat night bash at two fire stations on Wednesday Oct. 26. Kids and families will be offered candy, trick or treat bags, and safety tips from the fire and police departments.
Everyone is encouraged to dress up and enjoy the festivities. At 6 p.m. kids will partake in a mask decorating program.
City Council President Wanda Williams said the council created the event “in the spirit of getting the community together for our kids.” City Council has not hosted an event like this before.
Fire stations previously have handed out candy. This year the fire department wanted to be proactive by sharing safety tips the day before.
Fire Chief Brian Enterline said to keep candle-lit pumpkins and dry decorations separated. To avoid getting hit by drivers, kids should cross at cross-walks, wear something reflective, and bring a flashlight. Captain Gabe Olivera said a few kids got nipped by cars last year because they were crossing the street between parked cars.
Donations from community partners and city council members supplemented $72 from City Council’s budget to fund this event.
If you go:
October 26, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Harrisburg Fire Station #1 at 1820 N. 6th Street
Harrisburg Fire Station #8 at 9 S. 13th Street
The fire and police departments share these safety tips:
- Be careful with candles in pumpkins
- Keep candles away from dry decorations like corn husks
- Dress children in flame-resistant costumes
- Make sure kids can see through masks to avoid tripping
- Bring a flashlight
- Cross at crosswalks
- Have something reflective on costume
Author: Danielle Roth
