To ensure children have a safe and enjoyable Halloween, the Selma Police Department plans to be out in force patrolling streets and neighborhoods.

This week the city council set the trick-or-treating hours for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday evening.

Selma police offer the following safety tips to help local children and their parents plan for a safe outing:

* Small children should always be accompanied by an adult and trick-or-treat only in neighborhoods where they know the homeowners. Also, only approach homes where the porch lights are lit. Homes with porch lights off are not participating in Halloween activities and the residences should not be approached.

* Walk and stay on the sidewalks. Do not cut through yards and driveways. If there are no sidewalks, always walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.

* Make sure that Halloween costumes are bright and reflective. Use reflective markings or tape. Also, make sure shoes fit and costumes are short enough to avoid tripping. When walking from house to house, don’t wear masks because it cuts down of visibility.

* Always carry a flashlight with fresh batteries so that you can see and been seen by others.

* Homeowners participating in Halloween should make sure that their yards and porches are clear of items such as flower pots, hoses or other items that could trip young children. Also, use battery powered pumpkins rather than candles.

* Homeowners should put up pets during trick-or-treat hours for the safety of the pets and children.

* Feeding children prior to venturing out might help discourage children from over-indulging on Halloween treats.

* For those participating in Halloween, it is recommended that only candies wrapped

in individual packages should be handed out.

* Parents should always check the Halloween bags before allowing children to eat any candy. Any questionable items should be discarded and suspicious items turned over to law enforcement.

* Motorists are advised to use extreme caution when traveling during the trick-or-treat hours and parents are advised to follow all traffic and pedestrian laws. Pedestrians are advised to use caution because motorists may have difficulty seeing, or do not assume the right of way.