Trick or Treat in city of Merrill Oct. 31

2012 Halloween "Trick or Treating" hours will be from 5-8 p.m. on Halloween,

Wednesday, Oct. 31. The Merrill Police Department would like to ask the general public to take some time to remind your children of good Halloween safety practices.

Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.

Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.

Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Always WALK and don't run from house to house.

Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.

Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.

Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.

Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.

Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Don't stop at dark houses. Never accept rides from strangers.

Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Merrill police also remind vehicle drivers to be extra cautious while driving on Halloween as there will be an obvious increase in pedestrian traffic. And don't forget to say "Hi!" to any passing officers.

They may have a "goodie" bag for you!