On any other night during the year, the idea of individuals dressed in disguises and knocking on doors would lead many to lock their doors, turn out the lights and inform the authorities.

But, on Halloween, it is quite the opposite.

This event also brings with it a set of special safety tips that most holidays — or in the case of Halloween, pseudo-holidays — don’t normally call for. Let’s be honest, when was the last time someone suggested wearing something reflective to your family’s Thanksgiving dinner?

So, here are some easy safety tips experts are offering parents this year.

– Leave the child’s face unobstructed. If a trick or-treater wears a hat, be sure it fits well and doesn’t block vision. To be safe, apply make-up to their faces rather than masks or helmets.

– Stripe any costume with highly reflective tape front and back to make the young candy hunter easier to see in the dark. Try to avoid costumes that are dark or camouflage.

– Require children wear flat shoes that fit well, without heels. Avoid over-sized shoes such as clown costume shoes.

– Never let children trick-or-treat by themselves. Always make sure an adult accompanies a child.

– Trick or treat in well-lighted areas. Make sure each child has a flashlight to assist with walking from house to house.

– Do not allow children to eat any treats until the group has returned home and an adult has examined the contents of each bag.

Again, this is a short list of what kind of safety tips are out there from law enforcement, emergency medical and health officials.

Parents, do your research and make sure this Halloween is full of plenty of treats, and do everything you can do to avoid any of the tricks.

Stay safe and have a great Halloween. – Selma Times-Journal