Jack-o-lanterns are lighting up neighborhood windows and there’s a chill in the air — must be time for Halloween!

Here are a few tricks to stay safe and avoid any real-life scares while trick-or-treating:

• Small children should have a responsible older sibling or adult with them at all times.

• If older children go trick-or-treating without an adult, make sure they stick together as a group and only go to familiar neighborhoods. Tell them to stay in populated, well-lit areas and use a sidewalk if possible.

• Tell your child to never enter a stranger’s home, and never eat unwrapped food items or open beverages if they are offered.

• Attach a glow stick or reflective tape to your children’s costumes to make them more visible to drivers.

• Serve your kid a filling meal before trick-or-treating so they won’t be tempted to eat candy before they bring it home for you to check. Have an adult thoroughly inspect all candy.

• Cut large eyeholes in masks. Many store-bought masks restrict vision, making it difficult to see obstacles. Make sure costumes don’t restrict movement.

• Always carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.

• Teach your kids basic, everyday safety, such as not getting into cars or talking to strangers, and to look both ways before crossing streets.

Please use caution and keep these safety tips in mind to ensure your child has a happy Halloween.

There are several great alternative Halloween events in the area this year. The Niles District Library is hosting its ninth annual Costume Contest for ages birth to 12 on from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 27 at the library, 620 Main St. Prizes will be awarded. Parents and children can pre-register in the library’s children’s department now.

Another fun event for kids is the Niles Safe Downtown Trick or Treat from 4 to 5 p.m. Oct. 27. Enjoy visiting your favorite shops and trick-or-treating with the downtown merchants.

Also, “Trek or Treat” in Buchanan will be held from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Oct. 27 on the McCoy Creek Trail of Schirmer Parkway.

Whether you attend any of these ghoulish events, stay in to pass out candy, or hit the sidewalks, we wish you a sweet Halloween.

I look forward to hearing your comments on these important issues. If you would like more information about the upcoming hunting season, or have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me by calling (888) 373-0078 or emailing sharontyler@house.mi.gov.