(La Porte, IN) - The timeframe for trick-or-treating in La Porte has been changed this year.

The time-honored tradition of candy-collecting will take place, rain or shine, on Halloween, which is Thursday. But the time has been changed to 5-7 pm, from the previous time of 6-8.

La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody explained that the change was a response to public concern for safety. "For years we have kept our trick-or-treat time later to allow a little more time for working parents to get home and dress their children in their costumes," Dermody said. "However, given the calls we've received in recent years, it is clear that this no longer works for our community. Keeping our children safe will always come first, and we are adjusting the trick-or-treat time to reflect that."

He said residents with questions may contact his office at 219-362-0151.