Local police departments have issued safety tips for parents and children as Halloween approaches.

The Jamestown Police Department encouraged attendance at the city’s annual Halloween Fun Fest, sponsored by the city, to be held at the former Allen Park Ice Skating Rink on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. There is no charge to attend the event.

Trick-or-Treating will be observed from 6-8 p.m. Officers will be providing additional patrols of neighborhood streets throughout the evening, the department said in a news release.

JPD also offered the following tips to parents for Halloween:

¯ children should wear light colored, flame retardant, short costumes to avoid tripping and falling;

¯ reflective tape added to the costume enhances safety;

¯ carry a flashlight so you can see and be seen;

¯ use make-up instead of masks, which can be hot, uncomfortable and obstruct a child’s vision;

¯ children should Trick-or-Treat in groups, accompanied by an adult and should only Trick-or-Treat within their neighborhoods and only visit homes with outside lights on;

¯ give and accept wrapped candy only and instruct children not to eat any treats until they get home. Examine all candy before allowing children to eat it;

¯ keep costumed children away from pets. The pet may not recognize the child and become frightened;

¯ avoid hard plastic or wood props such as daggers or swords. Substitute with foam rubber that is soft and flexible; and

¯ watch for traffic.

“All citizens are encouraged to be especially aware and alert of activity in their neighborhoods on Halloween night and notify the Jamestown Police Department of any potentially dangerous or criminal activity,” the department said.

For those who have concerns regarding sex offenders, the national registry may be located at nsopr.gov.

In Dunkirk, Trick-or-Treating hours will be on Halloween from 4-7 p.m. The City Youth and Recreation Department will be hosting a Halloween Party for children from 3-5 p.m. at City Hall in the mayor’s conference room.

“Halloween can be a lot of fun for kids and parents alike,” said David Ortolano, chief of the Dunkirk Police Department. “Take a few extra minutes and remember the tricks and treats of playing it safe. A lot of the safety rules that apply to Halloween are good rules to follow all the time.

“Our Neighborhood Watch groups will be out keeping an eye on their neighborhoods for criminal activity and reporting to the police department. Anyone who witnesses or suspects any criminal activity can dial 911 for emergencies and we will send an Officer to check on it. Have a happy and safe Halloween.”