Calling all fairy princesses, super-heroes, ghosts and gremlins - get ready to troll spooky neighborhoods and magical surroundings all on the quest for... GOODIES! Yummy - I can almost taste the Snicker's Bars now. But there are some Halloween safety tips you should all be aware about.

Halloween just happens to be one of my favorite holidays of the year. When else do we get to dress up, play make-believe, and then be rewarded for it by receiving an assortment of candy and other wonderful treats. Oh sure, I tell myself - I'm just joining in on the fun for my daughter's sake, but the truth is - I love October 31st.

If you're anything like me, costumed or not, you'll be joining in on the trick-or-treating activities this month. Halloween has long been a cherished tradition for kids and adults, but sometimes all the excitement can cause us to forget some important safety rules. Here are some common Halloween safety tips to ensure a happy, healthy Halloween outing for all you hobgoblins out there (big and small).

Halloween Safety Tips For Kids and Grownups...

• Stay in familiar neighborhoods and have an adult go with you. Visit only those houses where the lights are on. Accept treats only in the doorway. NEVER go inside a house. Have a parent inspect your treats BEFORE eating anything. Stay away from open flames or jack-o-lanterns with candles burning. This is one of the Halloween safety tips that should never be ignored.
• Cross the street only at corners and be sure not to hide between parked cars.
• Carry a flashlight.
• Wear brightly colored clothes, or use some reflective tape on your costume or bag.
• Stay on the sidewalk. Don't walk in the street.
• Pin a slip of paper with the child's name, address and phone number to the inside of the costume or place in a pocket.
• Do not eat any unwrapped, partially wrapped, or homemade looking treats.
• Be very cautious of any stranger. Not only one of the best Haloween safety tips, but a safety tip for your children on any day.
• Stay in the open. Don't take shortcuts through alleys or backyards.
• For older children who may be trick or treating on their own:
• Never go out alone. Have at least 2 friends with you.
• Never enter a home. Accept treats at the doorway only.
• Carry a flashlight, a watch, and a cell phone if possible.
• Parents must still inspect any candy before you eat it.
• Plan your route ahead of time with your parents and STICK TO IT. It's one of the Halloween safety tips that takes preparation, but it's well worth it.
• Find a nearby store, restaurant, or another Mom with kids if you feel scared or need help.
• Reminders for Parents:
• Make sure children's costumes don't drag on the ground.
• Use non-toxic, hypoallergenic make-up on faces.
• Be sure your child eats dinner or a good, healthy snack before going out. This is one of the healthy Halloween safety tips.
• Store bought costumes should be made of a flame-retardant material.
• Inspect all candy and treats before children eat anything. Consider handing out non-food treats at your home like stickers, pencils, plastic rings, or erasers. 

Remember, if you follow these Halloween safety tips, Halloween can be a safe trip for everybody!