Trick-or-Treaters face snowy, icy sidewalks on Halloween in southern Colorado

The cold, snowy and icy aftermath of this week's winter storms has many southern Colorado parents wondering if it's safe to take their kids out trick-or-treating Thursday night.

While some parents are leaning towards indoor alternatives to keep kids warm, others remain committed to the annual tradition of handing out free candy and allowing costumed kids to knock on doors and collect candy.

In Colorado Springs, a city ordinance requires homeowners to shovel their driveways within 24 hours after a storm ends, and requires businesses to do the same by 5 p.m. the day after a storm.

Snow stopped falling Wednesday morning in Colorado Springs, meaning that property owners should be in compliance by the time most trick-or-treating begins.

Under the ordinance, the city has the authority to shovel a sidewalk if necessary, and bill the property owner.  Property owners also are liable in civil court for anyone who slips, falls or becomes injured on a slick sidewalk.

To notify the city of an unshoveled sidewalk, call 719-385-5977.