It’s Halloween season, which means pumpkins, candy, costumes, and, of course, trick-or-treating. As the sun progressively goes down sooner each day, make sure to prioritize safety when walking, biking, and playing outside. Here are a few tips to make this year’s Halloween night a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Be sure to choose a costume that won’t cause safety hazards, including accessories, wigs, masks, and makeup.

• Try and move your trick-or-treating earlier in the day to limit the amount of time spent outside in the dark with little ones.

• Cross the street in crosswalks or at intersections. Try to avoid crossing high-traffic streets when planning your route, and if you do, make sure to cross safely.

• Glowstick necklaces can be used to keep track of your kids in the dark. Reflective vests or belts are also encouraged.

• It’s best to travel in larger groups. It helps to have as many guardians as possible watching out for the young children who may easily get lost or wander near the roads.

• Children 12 years and younger should always be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating. If older children are going alone, make sure everyone has agreed on a route or plan as well as when they are returning home. Remind all children never to enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.

• Dress for the weather! Every child wants to show off their intricate costumes, but cold Halloween nights are common in Minnesota. Make sure to have coats, gloves, hats, and boots, as needed, for whatever the expected temperature is that night.

• Always inspect candy before eating. Check for allergens, holes or tears in the packaging, or anything that seems suspicious.

• Reminders for drivers…be extra cautious on Halloween! Pay extra attention for children on roadways, medians, and curbs. Enter and exit driveways and intersections carefuly. Discourage new or inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.