Basic tips include:

• Wearing bright and reflective costumes that fit well and are short enough to prevent tripping.
• Having a responsible adult accompany young children.
• Using flashlights to help Trick-or-Treaters see.
• Instructing children to cross streets at crosswalks only.

As children get older, they often want to go trick-or-treating without an adult. Review the rules:

• Go trick-or-treating with a buddy – never alone.
• Plan a route and let a responsible adult know where you are going. Stick to well-lit streets, and only visit homes that have an outside light on.
• Carry a cell phone, flashlight and whistle. Use them to alert others of an uncomfortable or unsafe situation.
• Accept treats at the door; never go into a home.
• Watch for vehicles backing out of driveways and look both ways before crossing a street or alleyway.

Home Safety

• Keep pathways clear of decorations or landscaping that could cause someone to trip.
• Keep your pets safe. If they are frightened by ringing doorbells or strangers coming to the door, keep them behind closed doors during trick-or-treating hours.
• Do not let pets eat candy. Chocolate can be deadly for pets, and they can choke on wrappers.
• If driving, use extreme caution throughout the night. Slow down and help keep children safe.