Are you celebrating Halloween safely?

EDINBURG – The Edinburg and McAllen Police Department shared a few safety reminders for trick-or-treaters this Halloween.

The Edinburg Police Department shared the following safety tips:

-Stay visible: Put reflective tape on your costume or on your trick-or-treating bag.

-Stay together: If you are in a group, make sure you do not get separated.

-Check your candy: If the candy package is opened or seems tampered with, throw it away or contact authorities, if suspicious.

-Walk safely: Make sure you’re walking on sidewalks when trick-or-treating and look at both ways before crossing a street.

He also commented that people who are commuting should be mindful of traffic.

“Just like we want you to be respected as your crossing the street by drivers, we want you to respect people’s private property including their lawns and driveways,” Vela-Reyna, public information officer for the Edinburg Police Department said. “Do not block anything that might be an issue especially for emergency purposes. All this causes congestion and in return frustration.”

John Saenz, public information officer for the McAllen Police Department also shared tips for Halloween when it comes to social events and costume safety.

Saenz said, “The primary message is to enjoy the Halloween season safely,” Saenz said. “In doing so, you know what kind of activity and I am going to, ask yourself ‘if I am going to need a designated driver.’

He also added that if a mask hinders the vision of a child or an adult, they should not be operating a vehicle or any other transportation devices.

Although safety is encouraged, Vela-Reyna also spoke about the consequences of extreme pranks or jokes.

“Any time emergency services respond, and if it is false in nature someone can be liable criminally or civilly,” Vela-Reyna said. “Be mindful of pranks, decorations that might be too realistic. If we respond and, it was a false report or a false claim you can even be arrested.”

Both police departments advised to report any suspicious activity to the local police department.