Mayor Barnes Highlights Preparations for Halloween Weekend in Hardy; Announces City-Wide Trick-or- Treating for Sat. Oct. 28

Mayor Barnes and City officials highlighted how Hardy agencies are working together to prepare for Halloween weekend, including increasing traffic enforcement and deploying the Hardy Nightlife Task Force. The Mayor also encouraged community members to do their part to have a safe, fun holiday. In particular, the Mayor called on drivers to slow down and to be vigilant of children who will be out trick-or-treating and attending Halloween festivities throughout the weekend and on Tuesday evening, October 31.
“This October 28th and on Tuesday [Halloween Day], we want everyone who is celebrating to have fun, but first and foremost, to be safe,” said Mayor Barnes. “I encourage families to check out all the family- friendly Halloween events that various organizations in the community have planned. And we are reminding anyone who will be driving to slow down and be extra careful. Children will be out trick-or- treating and having fun, it is getting dark outside earlier, and we need to work together to keep everyone safe.”
The City of Hardy is encouraging residents and businesses to participate in the trick-or-treating festivities on Saturday, October 28, 2023 from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. rather than on October 31, a school- night. “We want our kids in Hardy to be well rested for a regular school day on November 1, so we are encouraging the community to observe the holiday city-wide on October 28 for trick-or-treating in the Hardy residential neighborhoods, and along the commercial areas of the city,” said Mayor Barnes. “We hope this encourages good public safety and takes advantage of a non-school night for children and parents in Hardy to trick-or-treat. If you choose to partake and pass out candy, please leave your porch light on to signal that you are participating in the October 28th city-wide trick-or-treating event.”

Mayor Barnes added, “You can start your trick-or-treating at the Hardy Volunteer Fire Department located at 203 Church Street where our volunteer firefighters will be giving out free firetruck tours for kids, tricks, and treats, as well as spooky prizes. You may park at the Bill’s Cash Saver grocery store or the Hardy Civic Center, and walk downtown to participating businesses for the Trail of Treats from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., then head on over to the Hardy neighborhoods from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. for residential trick- or-treating!”
The Hardy Nightlife Task Force, led by Hardy Police Chief Scott Rose was implemented to engage community members and bring together resources for busy nightlife events in Hardy. The task force will be deployed on Saturday, October 28 and Tuesday, October 31.
The Hardy Police Department, the Hardy Volunteer Fire & Rescue Departments, and the Mayor’s Office are also advising the public that there will be increased traffic enforcement over Halloween weekend. Follow the tips below regarding traffic safety this Halloween:

• Always look both ways when crossing the street.
• Make sure that the street is well-lit to see oncoming traffic.
• Wear clothing that is bright, reflective, and flame-retardant.
• Only cross the street at street corners/crosswalks. Do not walk in between cars.
• If traveling with a group, assign a designated driver.
• Be alert for Trick-or-Treaters. Slow down and continue to scan the road in areas where they are
  likely to be or where sight distances are limited. Slower speed save lives
• Stay alert for pedestrians who may come out from between parked cars or behind shrubbery.
• Do not look at your phone when driving.
• Never drink and drive. Use rideshare services, such as taxis, Uber, or call a friend. If you see a
  drunk driver on the road, contact law enforcement.
  Additionally, if your family and friends are trick-or-treating this Halloween, follow the below safety tips:
• Children should never go into homes – stay on the porch when asking for treats.
• Children should avoid homes that do not have their outside lights turned on.
• Children should travel in small groups and be accompanied by parents or an authorized adult
  chaperone.
• Children should never go into a strangers’ cars if approached.
• Children should stay within familiar areas and surroundings
• Parents/chaperones should ensure costumes have a reflective attachment to be easily seen in the
  dark.
• Children should be aware of how to contact their parents/chaperones while out trick-or-treating.
• Children should use flashlights and stay on sidewalks.
• Parents should inspect all treats to make sure they are safe for consumption.
  Remember that if you are out enjoying Halloween activities, if you see something, say something:
• To report immediate threats or emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity or behavior, call 911.To report a drunk driver, call 911.
  Throughout the weekend and on Halloween, the quad-cities community will host a wide range of family-friendly Halloween events. Visit local media outlets to find out more, or visit Facebook.com to see local events posted in the Sharp and Fulton county communities.