While donning costumes to be police officers and firefighters can be fun for Halloween, the real departments urge the public to be safe for the holiday.

Halloween is the fifth-highest day of the year for candle fires, according to a recent report by the National Fire Protection Association.

People should use extreme caution with candles used for decoration or jack-o-lanterns and keep them away from flammable and combustible objects, said Lt. Karl Froehlich, fire prevention officer for the DeKalb Fire Department.

Rooming houses and residence halls also prohibit candles, he said, so other lighting appliances need to be used.

Caution should also be used when using extension cords for decorative purposes, and the cords should not be overloaded.

“Putting multiple lights or smoke machines on light weight extension cords is setting up for disaster,” Froehlich said.

Trick-or-treaters should be careful while walking this Halloween and avoid walking alone, said Lt. Gary Spangler of the DeKalb Police Department. It is advised trick-or-treaters go to houses they know and try and stay in familiar neighborhoods.

Candy should also be inspected before eating, and unwrapped candy should never be eaten, he said.

Spangler advises drivers to be careful on Halloween evening and said participants should wear reflective clothing if possible and avoid masks that impair vision.

Halloween Safety tips to avoid fires:

Purchase only costumes, wigs and props labeled flame-resistant or flame retardant.

When creating a costume, choose material that will not ignite if it comes in contact with heat or flame.

Dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper are highly flammable.

Keep away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.

Use flashlights to illuminate jack-o’-lanterns.

Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, ensuring nothing blocks escape routes.

Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torch lights when decorating walkaways and yards.

Provide children with lightweight flashlights to carry for lighting or as part of their costume.