The ghosts, ghouls, witches, superheroes and princess are out and about searching for candy, so it can only mean one thing: Halloween is here!

As much as we all love the tricks and treats associated with All Hallows’ Eve, it is important to remember that safety should be on everyone’s mind as children of all ages head out for the night.

One of the most important things to remember is to stay visible in the dark, especially if your kids are trick-or-treating in a high-traffic area. If parents are going out with their young children, usually the parent is put in charge of the flashlight. But for those kids looking to go out on their own, they most likely don’t want to carry the industrial-sized, only-use-if-the-power-in-the-house-goes-out lantern. It’s heavy, and it definitely doesn’t go with their costume.

Creative ways to make sure your child will be seen are using reflective tape directly on their costume or treat bags, or incorporating glow sticks into the mix. Glow sticks and necklaces are sold in most party stores, and even some superstores during the Halloween season. Have your kids carry the glow stick, incorporate it into their costumes, or wear the necklaces. They provide enough light to be seen but also keep with the spirit of this spooky night.

It is easy for parents to worry about the kids being out alone at night, so one suggestion is to map out the route your children will take so you have an idea of where your kids will be and when. Also, make sure someone in the group has a cell phone, if not everyone, so they can text and check in with you regularly.

Another good thing to remind your kids of is however far they walk; they have to walk back. Makes them think twice of going too far away.

An easy trick to make sure your little monsters don’t fill up on too many treats is to cook a big, filling meal and even provide dessert before they go out. That way they likely won’t be able to eat too much candy before bed.

While the kids out trick-or-treating need to remember to stay out of the middle of the road and avoid houses without any lights on, adults in the area should also remember a few safety tips. If you are driving on Halloween night, drive slowly, especially in residential areas. Also, if you are expecting trick-or-treaters, try to make sure any obstacles are removed from your yard or driveway like hoses, rakes, small lawn statues, etc. It’s very possible kids can and will trip on these objects.

Also, for those adults headed out to Halloween parties across the state, at bars or homes, please make sure to have a plan to get yourself home safely. We don’t want to report any car crashes next week.

Another quick reminder is that as October comes to an end, the season of giving begins. Last weekend, Boy Scout troops dropped off plastic bags for the Scouting For Food program. They are asking that people put non-perishable food items in the bag (no glass bottles please), and the Scouts will be going around collecting them on Saturday. A slew of charitable organizations will also begin their various drives at this time of year, so please remember to give what you can, when you can.

Have a happy (and safe) Halloween!