Tri-City trick-or-treating hours set

Trick-or-treating hours for the unincorporated areas of St. Mary Parish, Morgan City, Berwick and Patterson will all be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.
On average, a child is twice as likely to be struck by a car and killed on Halloween than any other time of year, according to Morgan City police.
Morgan City police recommend the following tips to keep kids safe:
—Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape.
—Use bright colors in designing costumes.
—The use of a poorly fitted mask can hinder and obscure a child’s vision. Use face paint or provide a mask that fits properly.
—Use glow sticks, flashlights, bright flags or something similar.
—Young children should always be under adult supervision.
—Use properly fitting costumes and clothing. Loose clothing and costumes could lead to falls and injuries.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following Halloween safety advice:
—Swords, knives and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.
—Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
—Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
—Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.
—Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and so that others see you. Walk from house to house, you should never run.
—Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
—Look both ways before crossing the street. Use crosswalks wherever possible.
—Don’t wear decorative contact lenses.
—Walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
—Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.
—Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
—Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Never accept rides from strangers.
—Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
—Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacle.
—Keep candle-lit jack-o’-lanterns and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways, landings and curtains. Place them on sturdy tables, keep them out of the reach of pets and small children, and never leave them unattended.
—Remind drivers to watch out for trick-or-treaters and to drive safely.