Halloween can be an enjoyable holiday for everyone, especially children. To make the holiday a treat instead of a trick, the Dunkirk Police Department recommends these safety tips.

For children and families:

— Stay visible: Wear bright or reflective costumes and carry a flashlight or glow stick.

— Use safe paths: Stick to sidewalks and crosswalks; avoid cutting through yards.

— Cross safely: Look both ways before crossing streets and make eye contact with drivers.

— Stay together: Young children should always be with an adult; older kids should travel in groups.

— Check costumes: Make sure costumes fit well, don’t drag on the ground, and masks don’t block vision.

— Avoid strangers: Only visit well-lit homes and never enter a stranger’s house or car.

For drivers:

— Slow down: Drive below the speed limit in neighborhoods.

— Stay alert: Watch for children crossing streets or walking along the roadway.

— Avoid distractions: Put down your phone and stay focused.

— Be extra cautious: Turn headlights on early and take extra care at intersections and driveways.

For Homeowners:

— Light it up: Keep your porch light on and walkway well-lit.

— Clear paths: Remove obstacles like hoses, decorations, or cords that could cause tripping.

— Pet safety: Keep pets secured to avoid scaring trick-or-treaters or escaping.

The City Council has set trick-or-treating hours from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday on Halloween. “We urge everyone to please observe these guidelines,” city police said in a news release. “If you want Trick-or-Treaters to stop at your house, please turn your porch light on. Trick-or-treaters should only stop at houses that have porch lights on.

“Halloween can be a lot of fun for kids and parents alike. A lot of the safety rules that apply to Halloween are good rules to follow all the time.

“Our patrols and neighborhood watches will be keeping an eye out for criminal activity in the neighborhoods. Anyone who witnesses or suspects criminal activity can dial 911 for emergencies, and we will send an Officer to investigate.

“Have a happy and safe Halloween!