For most trick-or-treaters the house that has their porch light out on Halloween is not a fun thing. It’s important for children to understand the meaning of lights out, thereby, bringing about respect for the people who choose not to give out treats or celebrate the festivities.

Possible reasons people do not choose to meet trick-or-treaters at the door.

Economy: In 2009, thousands of people have lost their jobs. People will more than likely be looking for an alternative for their children and to giving out candy. Out of your own experience, you may fully understand this and can explain to your child that the cutbacks may have dictated the amount of dark houses they may find this year.

Harvest or Fall Parties: Over the years, people have turned to having neighborhood parties. Parents form together and have a get together for the neighboring children. This is becoming popular for a lot of reasons. Sometimes these are held in back yards, churches and some are even held at pizza shops or restaurants that host parties. These neighborhoods may have a lot of dark houses.

Religious Beliefs: There are people who choose not to participate in Halloween at all. You may find that their porch lights are off and yet their inside lights are on. A porch light that is off is an indicator to those doing the trick or treating that particular house will not be participating.

Elderly: Oftentimes elderly people just don’t have the money or the time to participate in Halloween trick or treating activities. Sometimes their supper is at 4:00 and bedtime shortly after. Considering that they may have done trick or treating for years, possibly through their children and grandchildren, they may just be tired of it too. On the other hand some of the housing units catering to the elderly do like to participate. You will find these lights on and they are waiting for you. Some do not and their wishes need to be respected.

Many neighborhoods, townships and cities normally set their own trick-or-treat hours. Check your local newspaper or radio station to get your times. Daylight is obviously the best time for safety. Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t have their porch lights on at that time. Be prepared for that as well.

Before dusk, you can often tell houses that are participating in trick or treating by the window decorations or the pumpkins that line the walkways or porches. Being respectful at Halloween is important. Inform your children of the dos and don’ts in order to make the night rewarding to everyone.