Halloween safety tips

Trick-or-treating is a time-honored tradition that thousands of young children look forward to every year, but it leaves many parents worried. Forget the calorie-laden loot bag or potential for cavities from all the candy. Most parents are concerned about their children's safety as they're wandering around the neighborhood. So before your kids head out on their Halloween adventure, take some time to review these important tips from Long Island experts.

1. Never go trick-or-treating alone. "If your child/children want to go with a group of friends, have one or two trusted adults follow behind to keep an eye on things," said Lisa Dimitri, school social worker for Gadiners Avenue and Northside schools in Levittown

2. Discuss staying in populated, well-lit areas. "Don't take shortcuts or routes that are dark and unfamiliar," suggested Dimitri. Encourage your kids to stay in just a few blocks of your house.

3. Walk on sidewalks and look both ways before crossing the street.

4. "Younger children should always stay within sight of a trusted adult," said Jessica Peterson, guidance counselor at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School in Port Jefferson. "Older children should travel in groups of three or more and carry a cellphone. Establish several check-in times with your kids so they know where you are."

5. "Don't enter the home of a stranger or get into someone's car," said Dimitri. "Ever."

6. If you're trick-or-treating in the dark, make sure your children have some type of reflective clothing and/or flashlight, said Dimitri. Many mobile devices have a free flashlight app you can download.

7. Respect other people and their property. "Parents should not be buying shaving cream and eggs for their children," said Peterson. "Silly String is safer!"

8. When your kids arrive home, take a look in their candy bag and review the goodies before they dig in. This is especially important for children with allergies.