Be safe this Halloween while trick or treating Published Oct. 27, 2010 By 82nd Training Wing Safety SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Team Sheppard encourages everyone to stay safe during this year's Halloween trick or treating events. Here are some tips from the Sheppard Safety Office: Planning Make sure costumes are bright, reflective and short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or coming in contact with flames. Consider adding reflective tape or belt to costumes and trick or treat bags for greater visibility and add a flashlight or glow stick into the costume theme. Place an emergency identification that includes the child's name, address and phone number on their Halloween costume or on a bracelet. Masks can limit or block vision so consider using non-toxic makeup and decorative hats instead. Make your Halloween landscape safe. Eliminate tripping or other hazards on porches and around properties. Make sure yards are clear of ladders, hoses, dog leashes and flower pots that can trip little trick or treaters. Plan the entire route and make sure family members know what it is in case children become separated. Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects and avoid placing candles along pathways. Remind drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly through the community. During A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children during their neighborhood rounds. Walk, don't run. Always stay on the sidewalks and do not go between parked cars to cross the street; use the crosswalks. Stay in familiar neighborhoods and only go to houses that are lit. Carry a cell phone in case of an emergency. Never go inside houses or reach through car windows; only accept treats from Halloween friendly houses. Do not eat candy or treats before they are inspected. Drive very slowly and with the emergency flashers on if children are in the neighborhood. After After children return home, sort and check all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped, opened or suspicious items. Make sure anything that can cause choking, such as hard candies or small toys, are only given to older children.