In just a little over two weeks, children, teens and adults will be hitting neighborhoods throughout Lawrence County and the region to gather up as much candy as possible. However, this Halloween we hope that those out trick-or-treating this year don’t see more tricks than treats.

Safety should always be the number one priority when out during these events, and here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure everyone enjoys a safe and fun trick or treat this Halloween.

The CDC uses the acronym “Safe Halloween”, and those tips are:

Swords, knives and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.

Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.

Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Walk and don’t run from house to house.

Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

Look both ways before crossing the street. Use crosswalks wherever possible.

Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.

Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.

Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.

Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Never accept rides from strangers.

Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Making use of these tips may help our little ghosts, goblins and super-heroes have a wonderful experience this Halloween.