Halloween is Saturday, and while the younger ones may be thinking mostly of filling their bags with candy, there are a few reminders for both parents and kids to keep in mind for the holiday.

Below are a few basic tips for trick-or-treaters, courtesy of the Lawrence Police Department.

– Visibility is key. Children need to
be able to have adequate
visibility to see what is going on
around them while walking and
crossing streets. The costumes
themselves should be reflective so
pedestrians can be seen by vehicles.
If this is not possible, carrying a
flashlight or other means of
illumination should be considered. A
flashlight is also helpful for
getting house to house.

– Children should stay in groups and in
neighborhoods that they are familiar
with. An adult should accompany them.

• Only accept candy that is properly
wrapped in factory packaging. Parents
should check children’s candy when
returning home.

• Only visit well-lit homes and do not
enter homes unless accompanied by a
trusted adult.

• Do not accept rides from anyone you
do not know and have a trusted
relationship with.

The recommended hours for trick-or-treating are from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and residents wishing to hand out candy are encouraged to turn on their porch lights. Trick-or-treaters can also head downtown and visit businesses along Massachusetts Street beginning at 5 p.m. to “until the candy runs out.”

Lawrence Journal-World public safety reporter Caitlin Doornbos will have more Halloween safety information in an article on Saturday.