Halloween trick-or-treating in Merrill

There will be two opportunities for trick-or-treating in Merrill this Halloween.
First, Pine Crest Health and Memory Care (formerly Pine Crest Nursing Home) will host trick-or-treating for costumed kids from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 31, 2025.
Then, from 4-7 p.m., going into dusk and as darkness sets in, the community will welcome trick-or-treaters who come calling at their doors.
As a rule, if a light is on outside the home, the home is probably prepared with treats for the kids (but remember some people have motion lights, so it’s not a hard-and-fast rule).
Preparing for trick-or-treaters

• If possible, turn an outside light on near the front door. Alternatively, turn the light on inside the front door if you will welcome trick-or-treaters.
• Have different treat options available to offer age-appropriate treats or accommodate peanut or dairy allergies.
• Remove hoses, branches, toys, decorations, or other items in the walkway to the front door to prevent tripping.
• If you are driving during trick-or-treating hours, be on high alert for children crossing the street.
Parental guidance helps ensure safe trick-or-treating
• Always accompany young children as they go trick-or-treating.
• Ensure children can see clearly while wearing masks or costume accessories.
• Have children carry battery-powered flashlights or glow sticks.
• Add reflective tape to children’s costumes and candy bags to make them more visible to drivers after dark.
• Check your child’s candy bag — for signs of tampering (which is generally very rare), but also for allergens (check the ingredients label) or for candy or small toys that could be a choking hazard.
According to the Child Safety Network, child pedestrian fatalities double on Halloween compared to typical days. Visibility concerns, costume hazards, and food allergies present the primary risks. Taking precautionary measures and playing it extra safe can help reduce or eliminate many of the risks.