Throughout the Longview community, residents are planning activities to celebrate Halloween this weekend and on Monday. The City of Longview does not designate a particular date for residents to trick-or-treat. Traditionally, most door-to-door trick-or-treating occurs on Halloween night in Longview.

The City of Longview and the Longview Police Department provide some suggestions to make the festivities safer for all involved:

• Children should be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• Tell children to never enter a stranger's home and don't allow them to eat any of the treats they've collected until they get home.

• Inspect your children's candy and throw away any candy that is unwrapped, partially opened or appears tampered with.

• Make sure costumes are well fitting to avoid falls and that they don't cover a child's face in a way that would impair their ability to see.

• Have each child carry a flashlight or glow stick and attach reflective strips to dark clothing to make your child more visible in the dark.

• Be cautious when traveling and follow all regular traffic laws. For pedestrians, look both ways before crossing any street and be aware of your surroundings.

• Report any suspicious activity to the police.

• Consider an alternative: Instead of trick-or-treating, go to alternative celebrations held at churches, schools, shopping centers or other community organizations. Children can wear their costumes, collect treats and enjoy games and contests without the risks associated with trick-or treating.

• For homes distributing treats, remember to turn on your porch light if you wish to welcome trick-or-treaters.

• As always, please don't drink and drive.