Halloween is finally here. It’s only a short time before trick-or-treaters will fill the streets on a never-ending candy quest. Well, at least until bedtime.

Whether you’re planning on passing out candy or not, you should take some precautions to make sure any kids wandering your neighborhood have a safe Halloween. No one wants to be the house on the block responsible for mini-Effie Trinket’s tears when your over-friendly dog gets loose or baby-Incredible Hulk’s scraped knee (you won’t like him when he’s angry).

Clear a path. The morning or afternoon of Halloween, take a walk around the outside of your home. Put away hoses, bikes and garden equipment and clear away rocks, sticks and debris to prevent tripping.  Make sure Halloween decor on the ground is either brightly lit or out of the way.

Watch out for your pumpkins. Keep lit jack-o’-lanterns in a high place or consider getting a battery-powered candle instead of the real thing. Loose-fitting or flowing Halloween costumes can easily catch fire.

Put away your animals. Yes, you did a lot of work getting Spot into that Batman costume, but all the excitement Halloween brings can rile up your pet for better or worse. Hours of shrieking children can stress out even the best-behaved dog. Do your four-legged friends a favor and keep them in a quiet place until the party’s over.

Leave the lights on (or off). Whether to leave the lights on or off if you’re not handing out treats is a common question. If you live in a high-traffic area where your neighbors are all expecting trick-or-treaters, it’s a good idea to leave a porch light on. Kids running between houses might trip or fall in front of your dark home. Try putting up a sign that says “No candy here, sorry!”

Think carefully about candy. Individually-wrapped candies are best. If you are thinking about passing out homemade treats, consider adding a tag with your name and phone number on it to give parents some reassurance.

If you’re taking the kids out, remember to let them eat a big meal so they don’t get hungry before the night is over. This will also prevent hungry children from tearing into their treats right before bedtime.  Don’t forget to inspect all sweets – be on the lookout for unwrapped items and candy your child might be allergic to.

Make sure to travel in groups. Parents usually don’t mind people joining their group – parents will feel safer with a big group and trick-or-treaters will enjoy the company of other children.

Have a safe and happy Halloween everyone!  Check out the links below for last-minute Halloween ideas:
Our Favorite Costume Ideas From HGTV Fans
Halloween Party Favor and Treat Bag Ideas
Last-Minute Halloween Costume Ideas for the Entire Family
13 To-Die-For Halloween Cocktails
Spooky Halloween Table Settings and Decorations
FREE DOWNLOAD: Easy Pumpkin Carving Templates
More Halloween Inspiration From Design Happens