Fort Wayne, Ind. -- Despite a rainy forecast for Halloween in the Fort Wayne area, city officials have decided to not move trick-or-treating from Thursday to Friday.

The trick-or-treating in city neighborhoods will go as tradition holds, but if you plan to head out be prepared for inclement weather. Trick or treating hours will be from 6 to 8 p.m.

A joint statement from Mayor Henry's office and that of Police Chief Rusty York: "Though we received some inquiries into the rescheduling of Trick-or-Treating due to the weather forecast, it was decided that because of several area events already scheduled for Friday evening, the move would create a burden for many families."

Parents should monitor weather reports and ensure that all trick-or-treaters are dressed according to the anticipated weather conditions. The latest forecast from the National Weather Service calls for windy conditions with a steady rain early... then remaining cloudy with a few showers towards the evening and night hours.

Safety Tips

Candy Safety:
• Don't eat candy until it has been inspected at home.
• Trick-or-treaters should eat a snack before heading out, so they won't be tempted to nibble on treats that haven't been inspected.
• Tell children not to accept—or eat—anything that isn't commercially wrapped.
• Parents of very young children should remove any choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys.
• Inspect commercially wrapped treats for signs of tampering, such as an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes, or tears in wrappers.
• Costume Safety:
• Make sure it fits. Do a Halloween Runway Show with your kids - or even yourself - to make sure the costume offers full mobility and trim as needed
• "Seeing" works both ways. While we're on the subject of fitting the costume, consider how well the child can see inside the mask. Sometimes, a couple snips can clear out a larger range of vision. Consider how well your child can be seen at night in their costume. Make sure your child can be seen by motorists, haunted house owners, and other Trick-or-Treaters after dark.
• Consider the footwear. Many kids have been forced to turn back for home with far less than the annual candy quota because of pain or because they have tripped or fallen in their Halloween costume shoes.

General:
• Anticipate adverse weather conditions
• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
• Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you.
• Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
• Only walk on sidewalks or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
• Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats unless you know the cook well.
• Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Otherwise, stay outside.
• Carry a cell phone