We need to be considerate of vulnerable people this Halloween
That's the message from Carlow County Council as they remind people that Halloween can be a scary time for many including the elderly and those with additional needs.
The loud bangs and flashing lights that often come with the festivities can be quite distressing to those with autism and trick or treaters banging on doors may also cause upset.
Speaking to Beat News, environmental officer Jennete O'Brien, says people need to respect others choices to abstain from celebrations;
"When you're out trick-or-treating, you have to be mindful not just of elderly people but of people with autism and other difficulties who may react adversely.
Only go to houses where the lights are on and it looks like they're welcoming trick-or-treaters. You might have children with autism or different learning difficulties in there and you might cause them awful distress by banging and shouting and knocking on a door.
If a house's lights are off, it means that they're not engaging, respect their wishes, they probably have a good reason for it so leave them alone."
