This week, the streets will be filled with ghosts and goblins looking for sweet treats, and the Linton Police Department has provided tips to keep trick-or-treaters safe while enjoying Halloween. 

“Halloween is a fun and exciting time of the year for children of all ages, and even some adults,” according to a press release Linton Police Department Chief Paul Clark. “The Linton Police Department believes the most effective way to keep our children safe is to encourage trick-or-treat at residences of friends and families.”

Trick-or-treating tips:

• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.

• Have flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

• If your older children are going alone, plan and review the route that is acceptable to you. Agree on a specific time when they should return home.

• Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.

• Because pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween, remind trick-or-treaters: Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going. Remember reflective tape for costumes and trick-or-treat bags. Carry a cellphone for quick communication. Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic. Never cut across yards or use alleys. Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks. Never cross between parked cars or out of driveways. Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will.

• Law enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

Tips for hosting trick-or-treaters:

• Turn on porch light.

• To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes, and lawn decorations.

• Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs. Wet leaves or should be swept from sidewalks and steps.

• Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater, or run away.

• Consider purchasing non-food treats for those who visit your home, such as coloring books or pens and pencils.

Healthy Halloween tips:

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats. 

• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.

• Try to ration treats for the days and weeks following Halloween. 

• Be mindful and aware of food allergies.

• Teach your child to politely turn down home-baked items such as cupcakes and brownies, and never to taste or share another child's food.