Safety Tips for Homeowners:

1. Replace burned-out bulbs in exterior lights. Leave your exterior lights on later than usual -- perhaps even all night.

2. Clear the pathway. Make sure the path to your door is well lighted and your lawn is clear of things that could be tripped over, such as jack-o'-lanterns with lit candles, ladders, garden hoses, flowerpots, bikes, and animal leashes.

3. Sweep wet leaves from sidewalks and stairs.

4. Keep excitable pets away from the door. You'll have a safer and calmer house if you keep Fido away from where you are dispensing the treats.

5. Put your car in the garage. Lock your garage doors.

Alternative Treats:
Instead of candy, offer these treats:

Halloween stickers
Halloween pencils
Halloween erasers
Sugar-free gum
Plastic spider rings
Small toys
Temporary tattoos
Miniature boxes of raisins
Coins -- how about a new state quarter?
Individual packages of cheese or peanut-butter crackers or pretzels
Boxes of fruit juice
Gel pens
Fast-food coupons
Key chains
Foot bags or squeeze-foam balls