Nothing is as exciting for children as that final haul of goodies at the end of a successful Halloween trick or treat.

Dumping and spreading every piece of candy across the living room floor wanting an immediate tally of how many miniature Snicker and Pay Day bars made it into the sack can even challenge the thrill of the trick or treat adventure itself.

Trick or treating is a great time for children of all ages and even their parents or guardians, but by following safety tips suggested by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, parents can ensure that their child will stay safe while allowing them to have the maximum amount of fun.

Area times and dates for Trick or Treating:

Monday, Oct. 26, 2009

Ironton Safe Trick or Treat, sponsored by the Ironton Lions Club and Ironton Rotary Club: 5:30-7 p.m. – Downtown Ironton

Ironton Halloween Parade: 7 p.m. – Downtown Ironton

Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009

Ironton: 6-8 p.m.

Chesapeake: 6-8 p.m.

South Point: 6-8 p.m.

Hanging Rock: 6-8 p.m.

Coal Grove: 6-7 p.m.

Proctorville: To Be Determined

Athalia: To Be Determined

Ashland, Ky.: 6-7:30 p.m.

Huntington, W.Va.: 6-8 p.m.

Scioto County, Ohio: 5-7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009

Flatwoods, Ky.: 6-8 p.m.

Russell, Ky.: 6-8 p.m.

Here are some Halloween costume safety tips:

 Wear flame retardant costumes.

Try on costumes before Halloween to allow time for altering.

Make sure your Halloween costume is colorfast so the color does not run onto your other clothes if it rains.

Apply reflective tape to your Halloween costumes.

Avoid cumbersome masks; use make-up instead.

Make should be hypoallergenic and non-toxic.

Wear comfortable, practical shoes.

Keep all costumes and wigs away from candles and open flames.

Do not carry fake swords, guns, knives or similar accessories that look authentic. Make sure they are flexible and cannot harm anyone.

Here are some Trick-or-Treating tips:

Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries after dark.

Take a cell phone or carry money along to make a phone call in case of problems or emergency.

Wear identification that is easy to read.

Always trick or treat in groups, accompanied by an adult.

Follow a curfew and take a watch with a backlight.

Plan your route ahead of time.

Stay on the sidewalks and out of street if at all possible. Cross only at intersections and designated crosswalks.

Walk. No running.

Do not trample on lawns, flowerbeds and gardens.

Trick or treat in familiar neighborhoods

Only visit well lit houses. Don’t stop at dark houses.

Do not enter any house unless you know the people and are accompanied by an adult.

Carry a spare Halloween bag, in case the first one breaks or you fill your original one up.

Do not approach unfamiliar pets and animals.

Always watch for cars and do not jaywalk.

Do not eat any candy until it is inspected for tampering under bright lights

Avoid candy that has loose wrappings, is unwrapped, has puncture holes or is homemade.

Report any suspicious or criminal activity to an adult or police.

Be polite and say “Thank you.”