Halloween is almost here, and kids everywhere are planning their Halloween costumes for trick-or-treating. When you take your little Batgirls, witches, Spidermen, and pirates around town on October 31, follow these tips for a safe Halloween:

• Children under age 12 should be accompanied by an adult. Kids over age 12 should trick-or-treat in groups in familiar neighborhoods.

• Stick reflective tape on children’s costumes and bags so drivers can see them.

• Use face paint and makeup instead of masks, which can obscure a child’s vision.

• Give kids flashlights so they can see the way and their fellow trick-or-treaters.

• Walk, don’t run, from house to house. It’s called a sidewalk for a reason! Use them. If there aren’t any sidewalks, walk facing traffic on the far left side of the road.

• Cross at the crosswalks only and obey traffic signals.

• Stay away from lit candles or other decorations.

• Visit well-trafficked neighborhoods. A ghoul told us that Oakland Avenue, Trestle Glen, Lakeshore Ave., Berkeley’s Elmwood District, and Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza are some of the most popular East Bay haunts.

• Don’t let your kids eat homemade treats from strangers.

• Inspect any item that isn’t factory-wrapped.

Drivers: Be extra cautious on Halloween

If you’re out and about on Saturday night, drive with an abundance of caution. Drive slowly in residential neighborhoods, and watch closely for pedestrians-especially kids darting into the street. Be especially vigilant at intersections with crosswalks.

And it goes without saying, don’t talk, text, eat, or drink when you’re out on the road. Appoint a designated driver or take public transportation, a taxi, or Uber to that Halloween party. A DUI on Halloween would be very scary indeed!

Have a fun, safe Halloween!