Have fun and stay safe with these Halloween tips

For little ghosts, glittering princesses and small superheroes, Halloween is a thrilling night of make-believe and spooky fun. But during the sugar-fueled race to the next porch, safety is paramount. Keep the magic alive with planning, parental supervision, eagle eyes and some essential items. Then the night can end with treats, not trouble.  

• ACCOMPANY young children. Let them start trick-or-treating before sundown. You can always end early and continue the fun at home.
• STICK TO FAMILIAR routes, obey traffic signals and signs, and look both ways before letting kids cross roads. Try to keep them from running — uneven surfaces and curbs are lurking.
• PUT REFLECTIVE STICKERS or tape on costumes and candy bags so vehicles can see them. Consider face paint and makeup instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
• CARRY A FLASHLIGHT and 
accompany little goblins up long driveways or across large lawns. 
• BRING SNACKS and water for longer walks in rural areas.
• SKIP DARK or secluded paths or houses, unless you know the owners.
• SET A GROUP MEETING PLACE for a certain time, especially if older siblings are racing ahead. Cell phone service could be spotty.
• INSPECT CANDY for torn wrappers, allergens or anything unfamiliar.
• DRIVERS, SLOW DOWN! Watch out for kids in dark costumes darting across roads.