• Adults should carve the pumpkin, let the kids draw the face for the adult to carve.
• No child should go trick-or-treating alone. Younger children should be with an adult while older children can go in groups.
• Trick-or-treat early in the evening, not later in the evening when things tend to get more hectic.
• Remind children to walk on sidewalks and be cautious when crossing streets.
• Only trick-or-treat in your neighborhood and have an early curfew.
• Only trick-or-treat at houses where you know the person inside and only if the lights are on.
• Do not enter the home of anyone.
• Be cautious of all animals, even the friendly neighborhood dog can bite when he doesn't recognize you in costume.
• Check labels to see that all costumes and accessories are flame-resistant.
• Put strips of reflective tape on the front and back of costumes to make them more visible to drivers.
• Make sure all facepaints, glues, and glitters are nontoxic.
• Don't allow children to carry sharp objects, such as swords and knives.
• If wearing a mask, make sure it fits securely and has eyeholes large enough so that the child can see. (If possible do not wear a mask.)
• Feed the kids before they go so they will be less likely to eat the treats before they get home, warn them not to eat anything before you inspect it.
• Throw away any homemade treats or any treats with torn or unsealed wrapping.
• Last of all, consider attending a party at your church or school rather than going door-to-door.