Although children look forward to tricks, treats, and ghoulish garb, Halloween can be very stressful for parents, with candy given to their kids by strangers and a legion of masked and costumed trick-or-treaters at the door. However, following a few safety tips can ensure safe fun for kids and candy-givers alike.

To ensure that trick-or-treaters, you, and your house stay safe, remember the following tips:

• Clear your yard and sidewalk of any obstacles or decorations that may be hard to see in the dark, lest someone go bump in the night.

• Keep your house well lighted, both inside and out; you wouldn’t want to miss any particularly good costumes, would you?

• Ask your Neighborhood Watch or local citizen’s group to haunt (patrol) your community.

• Report any suspicious or criminal activity to your police or sheriff’s department.

• To make sure even the scariest costumes are safe, keep the following in mind when buying or designing one:

1. Try makeup instead of masks; it’s more comfortable and doesn’t obstruct vision the way masks can.

2. Check to ensure that costumes are flame-retardant so that young ones are safe around jack-o’-lanterns, candles, and other flames.

3. Keep costumes short to ensure that the only trip taken is the one around the neighborhood.

4. Look for brightly colored costumes, attach reflector strips to costumes and bags, and remind trick-or-treaters to carry glow sticks and flashlights.

5. If a costume involves any sort of fake weapon, make sure that it is made of a flexible material such as cardboard or foam. Or, avoid the whole problem of weapons by challenging your child to design a costume that is scary without one.

• Older kids should trick-or-treat in groups; kids walking around alone are never as safe as those in groups, and especially not at night. Younger kids should be accompanied by a parent or trusted neighbor.

• Review the route for trick-or-treating beforehand and set a time when kids should be home. Also, have a plan if your child gets separated from his or her friends or from you.

• Remind your children not to enter strange houses or cars.

• After a successful and safe night around the neighborhood, remember that the treats still need scrutiny before anyone eats them.

• Remind your children not to eat treats until they’ve come home. To help ensure this, feed them a meal or a substantial snack before they go out.

• Check all treats at home in a well-lighted place. Be especially wary of anything that is not wrapped by the factory or that is no longer sealed.

• Take a cellular phone with you if possible.

• Wear a watch.

• Carry a flashlight.

So remember, following these few safety tips can ease stress and ensure safe fun for everyone. Happy Halloween…