Area police departments are encouraging safety and supervision during the Trick-or-Treat season.

They remind parents to have their children avoid trick-or-treating alone. Have your child walk with a group or trusted adult, and know where they’ll be. Remind children about avoiding strangers. Set rules about not eating treats until kids get home and be sure to inspect all treats before allowing kids to eat them.Both Pella and Knoxville will hold Beggar’s night on Thursday, October 30th.

Other Tips:
•Attach a nametag with your phone number to your child’s costume.
•Take a flashlight. Walk on sidewalks in well-lit areas when possible.
•Avoid masks as they can make it difficult for children to see and breathe. Instead, use non-toxic face paint.
•Remind kids to NEVER enter a stranger’s home or car.
•Set rules about not eating treats until kids get home. Be sure to inspect all treats before allowing kids to eat them.
•Candy that has been opened should be thrown away. Any homemade treats or fruit should be inspected closely. If in doubt, throw it out.
•Drivers have a hard time seeing children, especially at dusk. Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags.
•Cross only at street corners, never between parked cars.
•Watch open flames from jack-o-lanterns as they can catch costumes and long wigs on fire.
•Make sure fake knives, swords, and guns are made from cardboard or other flexible materials to avoid accidental injury or having them mistaken for the real thing