TOLEDO, Ohio — Halloween can be a fun experience, especially when the proper precautions are taken.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports there are around 3,600 Halloween related injuries every year.
Toledo Police Officer Prince Flores said Halloween safety is everyone's responsibility and this day is all about fun if you follow a few tips.
"[On Halloween] you will see a ton of people outside," said Flores.
Officer Flores explained it's their job to protect those people and to get trick or treaters home safely.
"[Make] sure that you have a flashlight, or you have reflective material on your costumes. If you are wearing a mask, be extremely careful or have someone with you to keep you safe," said Flores.
Protecting the trick or treaters visiting your home on Halloween is an important responsibility.
"If you're going to be handing out candy. making sure that your house is well lit for the trick or treaters. Make sure sidewalks and driveways are clear of any type of debris so no one slips or falls or anything like that," said Flores.
He also stated it's not a bad idea to party on Halloween but it's a better idea to party with a plan.
"If you're going out and you're going to be drinking or anything like that just make sure you have a designated driver or a third-party vehicle service to get you to where you need to go safely," said Flores.
Drivers on the roads should also be extra cautious for pedestrians.
"Make sure you are paying attention. Be extremely careful when backing out or pulling into driveways. And make sure that you are moving at a speed in neighborhoods that's going to be safe for you and for trick or treaters," said Flores.
Officer Flores said for Halloween every year, TPD's advice is simple and clear.
Trick-or-treating in Toledo begins at 6 p.m. and ends at 8 p.m.