If you are planning to go trick-or-treating this Halloween, Steinbach RCMP would like to offer a few tips for making it a safe and enjoyable experience.

Community Constable Dennis Redikop says children should always let their parents know where they are going and what time they expect to return home.

While out and about, trick-or-treaters should use sidewalks and crosswalks wherever possible. They should wear bright coloured costumes with reflective tape and carry a flashlight in order to be visible to drivers and others in the area.

He says children should wear good shoes so they do not trip and to only visit homes that have their lights turned on.

"Make sure not to go to houses that have their lights out," stresses Redikop. "Do not go inside a house or into a car with anyone that you don't know."

Redikop says his recommendation is for trick-or-treaters to start early and finish early, before it gets dark.

"Don't go into alleyways or parking lots or any vacant lots and just be safe," he says.

He urges children to throw away any candy that is unsealed and not to eat treats until their parents have had time to inspect their bags.

And finally, because of the pandemic, Redikop reminds trick-or-treaters to make sure they practice physical distancing, wear masks and use hand sanitizer.