Here's a list of tips we've compiled:

* Place an orange balloon out the front of your house to signal that your home is open to trick or treaters

* Do a letter box drop in the days beforehand notifying neighbours that your children will be visiting. If possible, specify a time period that you might be dropping by. (Click here for a sample letter we've pulled together)

* Don't trick or treat past 8.30pm. Most people are settling down for the night and it's probably getting past some kids' bedtime anyway!

* If you don't want visitors on Halloween, place a notice on your door/letterbox stating so to prevent unwanted knocking. 

* Make sure children are supervised. Children are always much safer in the company of a trusted adult.

* Remind children of stranger danger.  Children should be warned never to enter a person's house or vehicle, no matter how many lollies they promise or what kind of cool tricks they brag about

* Plan a route before children leave and set a time for return. If children aren't supervised you'll have a good idea of where they will be and when to expect them home. Plus, panning a route means you can limit their travels to familiar neighbourhoods. 

* Make sure children are visible. Give them a torch to use if it will be dark or make sure they're wearing glow-sticks and necklaces to ensure they can be seen by both pedestrians and motorists. 

* Remind them of the rules. Sometimes all the excitement of lollies and dress-ups can be overwhelming so it's timely to remind children to be smart - look both ways before crossing the street, don't run, don't take shortcuts down side streets and alleyways. 

* Check costumes for hazards. It might sound like OH&S in overdrive but little things can actually turn into big dramas. 

- Test make-up and face paint on a patch of skin to ensure there are no allergies

-Make sure masks with small slits for the eyes and mouth don't make it difficult for the child to breathe

- Remember that oversized wigs/masks can fall down and prevent children from seeing the ghosts and ghouls coming their way

- Only carry flexible props (knives, swords, ninja items etc) that can't cause injury if a child falls. Keep in mind that some people might find these props offensive.

* No eating lollies until you get home.This may seem like an odd request for excited kids but this way you can ensure you know what (particularly important for kids with allergies) and how much is going into your little monsters tummies!

* Remember your manners. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is a must. Consider pre-preparing little thank you notes to hand to people who participate.