Halloween is a fun and exciting time for children and adults, but people should be aware of the dangers that can occur.

Although dangerous incidents are rare, DeKalb police urge all parents to be especially cautious for any problems that might occur.

“We have a normal amount of crimes reported, but we are more on the lookout for mischief in conduct, such as loud noises, pumpkin smashing, etc.,” said University Police Lt. Ron Williams.

Williams added that any children caught breaking the law will be reprimanded according to the severity of their actions. If any NIU students are caught committing a crime, they can be disciplined through NIU’s Judicial Office, Williams said.

Sycamore Hospital will X-ray candy from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday. The hospital provides this service because it helps to protect the area youngsters, said Phyllis Davis, public relations director.

Nancy Bidlak, public relations director for Kishwaukee Community Hospital, said she finds fault with X-raying candy.

“We haven’t X-rayed candy for a few years now, because it shows only metal, and not drugs, grass or plastic. We didn’t want anyone to feel falsely safe,” Bidlak said.

The DeKalb Police Department has issued a list of Halloween safety tips. Hazards include the following:

‘Dangerous roadways—children might become careless from excitement and run into the roadway. Dusk is the poorest time of visibility for drivers.

‘Open flames—flames from jack-o-lanterns and candles. Billowing costumes or flowing wigs can catch fire easily.

‘Dangerous dress—loose costumes, bulky trick-or-treat bags, unsafe shoes, masks which reduce vision, sharp or pointed toy weapons and dark, hard-to-see costumes can be hazardous.

‘Tainted treats—razor blades in apples and tacks in popcorn are some hazards parents should be aware of. Parents should also inspect all food before their children can eat it.

In addition to the above tips, police urge parents to accompany their children on their trick-or-treat rounds, restrict children only to homes of friends and relatives and areas where they feel their children can be safe. Older children should have clear instructions on when they should be back, police said.