By Payton Tholstrup

Halloween is right around the corner, and soon, children will be out trick-or-treating. It is important to keep safety in mind when preparing your children for the night of festivities.

The first tip to keep in mind is that trick-or-treaters need to be visible, as well as be able to see. Reflective tape can be used on costumes, candy bags, and strollers to make them more visible to drivers. Glow sticks and flashlights should be used so trick-or-treaters can see where they’re going.

Remind children to look both ways before crossing the street and to avoid crossing in between parked cars. Crossing at street corners is best.

Drivers also need to be aware of trick-or-treaters; go slow and use extreme caution. Trick-or-treaters might forget to look both ways or have their vision obscured by masks (which is why it is recommended by many groups, like the American Red Cross, that trick-or-treaters wear face paint instead of masks).

Going in groups is also recommended if possible. Even if a child is old enough to go trick-or-treating by themselves, it is best if they go with a group of friends and stick to familiar neighborhoods.

Have a safe route in mind and set a time limit. Remind children not to go into anyone’s home and to remain on the porch, as well as not to accept rides from strangers.

All treats should be inspected before they get eaten. Removing homemade treats is a good idea, especially if your child has food allergies.