HALLOWEEN is shaping up to be a treat, not a trick. this year with lots of events in and around Hillingdon.

However, the council has issued some tips for residents to enjoy the festivities safely.

Put a polite notice on your door if you do not want to be interrupted by “trick or treaters”.

If you want to give Halloween “trick or treaters” some goodies remember to keep items close to the front door so you can reach them easily, or close your door fully if you need to go and find something.

Use your door chain when you open your door to anyone you don’t know.

If you’ve got candles or tea lights in pumpkins or just around your house, make sure you put them in heat-resistant holders.  Always make sure every candle is fully extinguished before you go out or go to bed.

Check your outside lights work.  They will help you see who is at your front door.

Do a last cut of your hedges at the front of your house.  Don’t give criminals a hiding place behind high plants that screen them from the road.

A round-up of Halloween events:

October 26, Hayes
Halloween Disco - for all ages and prizes for the best-dressed boy and girl.
For more information visit - http://www.netmums.com/hillingdon/local/view/whats-on/october/halloween-disco-on-friday-26th-october

October 27, Harefield
Spooky Halloween Trips with Hillingdon Narrowboats Association – a spooky ride on the Coy Carp, with treats for the children and slices of pumpkin pie for the adults. Each round trip takes about an hour.
http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/article/23186/Outdoor-events?lnk=8

October 27 – 28, Uxbridge
Carters Steam Fair – a family funfair open all weekend with Halloween theme fancy dress competition and fireworks on Saturday night.
For more information visit -  www.carterssteamfair.co.uk

October 28, Uxbridge
I-Scream Halloween Party – Children’s afternoon of fun with games, food, gifts, entertainment and prizes to be won for best-dressed.
For more information visit - http://www.netmums.com/hillingdon/local/view/whats-on/october/i-scream-halloween-party

October 31 – November 3, Ruislip
Quarantine at Ruislip Railway. Argosy Players will take you through the woods on a spooky train where a horrific disease has broken out in Ruislip, mutating humans and turning them against their own kind.
For more information visit http://www.argosyplayers.org.uk/quarantine.htm

October 31, Cranford
Halloween spooky spectacular. Make Halloween lanterns and masks in this woodland setting, followed by a spooky walk around the park at 5pm.
For more information visit - http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/article/23186/Outdoor-events?lnk=14

October 31, Cranford
Ghostly walk and talk. Chilling tales for Hallowe'en in one of Hillingdon's most historical and atmospheric locations.
For more information visit - http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/article/23186/Outdoor-events?lnk=17

October 31, Uxbridge
Halloween children’s spectacular. Hillingdon Sports & Leisure Complex will have prizes for Halloween fancy dress, bouncy castles, toddler world toys and games.
For more information visit: http://newsite.fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/Hillingdon_Sport_and_Leisure_Complex%20/news/001_Halloween_Children_s_Spooktacular