Trick-Or-Treating Hours Moved Due To EEE Concerns In Methuen

METHUEN (CBS) -- The city of Methuen said trick-or-treating will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Halloween this year. The change comes after the season's high Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) threat.

"The 6:00 pm end time will ensure that activities can be finished before dusk to address any concerns about mosquito exposure," said Mayor James Jajuga in a statement. "The City is acting out of an abundance of caution to ensure that children can enjoy Halloween safely."

The risk level for EEE in Methuen has been critical since a horse died of the disease there in August.

It is recommended that residents still take their own precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as wearing bug spray and long clothing.

Some of the EEE threat could be irradicated with the first frost this weekend.