Halloween night is Wed., Oct. 31st.

 

The little ghosts, goblins, witches and other things that go bump in the night will be out in full force on Wednesday, Oct. 31st,  trying to scare up some treats.

Frederick Police say parents should accompany their kids as they go door-to-door. If children are going alone or with friends, have them plan a route, and carry a cell phone in case of emergencies. Make sure your little ghouls carry flashlights or glow sticks.

Authorities say only visit homes which have their porch lights on, and don't let your kids sample the candy they collect until they get it home and let you inspect it. A child's costume should fit well and not drag on the ground.

Homeowners taking part in trick-or-treat should keep candles away from landings and doorsteps, and don't leave burning candles unattended.

Also, report any suspicious activity to area police.

Other tips include:

1. Carrying a flashlight with fresh batteries after dark.

2. Always trick or treat in a group, accompanied by an adult.

3. Follow a curfew and take a watch with a backlight.

4. Plan your route ahead of time.

5. Stay on the sidewalks and out of the street; cross only at intersections or designated crosswalks.

6. Walk, don’t run.

7. Watch out for open flames in jack-o-lanterns.

8. Trick or treat in familiar neighborhoods.

9. Only visit well lit homes; don’t stop at dark houses.

10. Don’t enter any houses unless you know the people.

11. Don’t approach unfamiliar pets and animals.

12. Don’t cut across yards and stay out of back yards.

13. Follow traffic signals; don’t jaywalk.

14. Always watch for cars backing up or turning.

15. Never accept rides from strangers.

16. Don’t eat any candy until it’s inspected by a parent or guardians.

17. Avoid candy that has loose wrappings, is unwrapped, has puncture holes or is homemade.

18. Report any suspicious activities to an adult or the police.

The Frederick Police also had these Halloween costume safety tips:

1. Wear flame retardant costumes.

2. Try on costumes before Halloween to allow time for alterations.

3. Hem your costumes so you don’t trip and fall.

4. Apply reflective tape to your Halloween costumes.

5. Avoid cumbersome masks; use makeup instead.

6. Wear comfortable, practical shoes.

7. Double tie your shoelaces so you don’t trip.

8. Keep you costume and wig away from candles.

9. Don’t carry fake swords, guns, knives or similar accessories that look authentic. Make sure they’re flexible and can’t harm anyone.