Halloween in Haverhill a bit different this year to avoid mosquitoes

HAVERHILL, Mass. — It was Halloween in Haverhill on Saturday. For decades the town has held its trick or treating on the Saturday before Halloween. This year the town made some changes to keep kids safe.

Crowds of families packed the streets of Haverhill Saturday for the town’s annual trick-or-treating, with the usual sights and sounds. The only difference this year, families were encouraged to get out earlier than normal to avoid the risk of catching EEE from mosquitoes.

"I'm glad it’s earlier, it's daylight, kids can walk around in their costumes and, you know, it's safer for them," said Irving Tavares of Haverhill.

Most families were happy about the earlier hours.

"I mean I think it's a good idea, it's keeping the kids safe, and I mean they don't care, they love it anyways so as long as they get to trick-or-treat," said Michelle Leva, a local mother.

Related: Latest Mass. EEE news

Plus there are other benefits to getting out before dark.

"I like it early, I like being able to see the kids and what they look like, they're all adorable," said Lynn Westcott.

This year the town of Haverhill moved trick-or treating up by about an hour to 4:30 p.m. so kids could get done before dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

"I think it's a really good idea," said Sam DaSilveiera, a local mother. "It's easier for people to be home and when it's light out, it's a lot safer, and the risk of the mosquitoes is a huge importance right now."

Some were surprised the threat is still out there with temperatures dropping.

"I highly doubt there's any mosquitoes left, we've had a couple chilly nights now," said Cindy LaRoche.

But state health officials say these towns aren't totally in the clear until at least one hard frost. And towns like Haverhill are taking this seriously after a few people already died from the disease in Massachusetts over the last couple of months.

"It's crazy," Leva said. "It's scary to think that one mosquito bite could kill you."

Cox Media Group