Thursday, October 31 is Halloween, and thousands of children and adults, will be trick-or-treating and heading to parties throughout Missoula.

Crime Prevention Officer with the Missoula Police Department Rob Scheben offered some tips for Halloween safety for kids and their parents.

"Make sure your children are visible," Scheben said. "Have them carry a flashlight or a glow-stick, or have reflective tape on their costumes. It's going to be pretty cold on Halloween night, so kids might be wearing coats over their costumes, and they should also have reflective tape."

Scheben said staying in familiar neighborhoods also provides safety for young trick-or-treaters.

"I recommend that children stop only at familiar homes in their own neighborhood, unless accompanied by an adult," Scheben said. "Parents should also instruct their children not to eat any of their candy until they have come home and you have a chance to inspect it first."

Crime Prevention Officer Rob Scheben:

Southgate Mall will have activities on Halloween starting in the late afternoon, according to marketing director Trisha Piedalue.

"This year, we will be hosting a carnival to benefit the Hospice Care Foundation," Piedalue said. "The carnival starts at 4 p.m. and then we'll be having our costume contest from 4 till 8, with our traditional trick-or-treating for the kids from 6 to 9. Just bring the kids in costume to J.C. Penney court for costume judging."

Southgate Mall Marketing Director Trisha Piedalue:

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