Halloween is one of my favorite times of year, with the crisp autumn breezes, rustling leaves and my annual favorite - dinner in a pumpkin on Halloween night. However, the days become shorter and excited kids can forget about safety, which can lead to injuries. Following are some safety tips regarding Halloween in Livonia.

Start by helping your children choose a costume that is both fun and safe. Make sure that it is large enough to provide for layers of clothing underneath, and nothing so long that it creates a trip hazard. Masks should have eye holes large enough to see well out of, but makeup is a better choice for unobstructed vision.

Make sure the costume is labeled as flame resistant. While this does not mean that it cannot burn, it does mean that it is more likely to burn slowly and has a good chance of self-extinguishing if a flame does contact it.

Any props that are to be carried, such as swords or knives, should be made of flexible material that will not hurt if anyone falls onto it. A flashlight is a good item for kids to be carrying, and some are lightweight and small enough that it shouldn't create a problem.

Make sure you are aware of who your children are heading out with on Halloween night. If you are letting a group go out unsupervised, make sure they check in at home now and then at predetermined times, and cell phones can be a great way to do just that. Remind this group to stay on sidewalks, cross streets at corners, only visit homes with lights on and remember to check in with parents regularly.

Young children need to be supervised at all times. I am not a fan of allowing older children to take younger children with them, since different age groups have a different focus and perspective on what is safe and fun. Have some parents walk with the young groups and help keep them safe.

Feed the kids dinner before they head out for the night. This can keep down the desire to do any snacking along the way. Remind them to bring home candy before eating it so that it can be inspected in the safety and lighting of the home. Any unwrapped or suspicious items should be discarded.

Now take a few minutes to make your home safe for the trick-or-treaters you will be visited by. Rake your leaves from the sidewalks and path to your house to avoid falling creatures on your lawn. Remove trip hazards such as rakes, hoses or other yard tools. Make sure you have a light that works on your front porch and stay away from candles in your decorating. There are many battery-operated lights that give off many different effects, and glow sticks can also create a great look. There are also flameless candles if you like that burning jack o'lantern look.

Make plans ahead of time to do any errands or shopping so that you can avoid driving during peak trick-or-treating hours. The fewer cars on the road, the better for everyone on Halloween night.

Happy Halloween!

Tom Kiurski is training coordinator for the Livonia Fire Department.