Gilbert, AZ - With Halloween is just around the corner, Gilbert PD and Gilbert Fire & Rescue have some important tips and reminders to help make the holiday a safe experience for all.

Trick-Or-Treating

• Trick or treat in well lit areas and make sure kids in costumes are carrying a flashlight or glow sticks.
• Stay on sidewalks and look both ways when crossing roads.
• Make sure costumes don't obstruct a child's vision and that they're the right size to avoid trips or falls.
• Check your child's candy and dispose of any that is not properly wrapped.

If you plan to be on the road during trick or treat hours, remember:

• Look in all directions and watch for children on the road.
• Back up slowly when exiting driveways.
• Slow down in residential neighborhoods.
• Don't drink and drive.

Carving a pumpkin? Follow these tips from  from Gilbert Fire & Rescue to avoid injuries:

• Before you start carving, prepare your pumpkin carving area and tools.
• Use small, controlled motions when carving.
• Work in a well-lit work area.
• Keep your free hand out of the way to avoid mishaps.
• Make sure the carving area is dry, well lit and on a stable surface.
• Wash and dry all of your tools before carving.
• Keep your hands clean and dry to avoid slipping.

If a minor injury occurs, rinse and clean the wound with warm water, applying pressure with a clean cloth. Seek medical attention if the bleeding doesn’t stop within 15 minutes, the cut is deep or may need stitches. For more serious injuries call 9-1-1.

The Gilbert Police Department will be continuing its fall safety detail, enforcing laws related to underage drinking, curfew violations, and unruly gatherings. We all play a role in ensuring the safety of our youth and empowering them to make good choices.

Unruly gatherings

• Unruly gatherings means a party, gathering, or event on any public or private property, including property used to conduct business, in a manner which causes a disturbance of the reasonable enjoyment of private or public property by any person or persons. Under the ordinance, responsible person(s) could be a property owner, landlord, tenant, or any sponsor. If the person is under age 18, the responsible persons would also include their parents or guardians. An owner, landlord, or tenant would not be liable unless they were present, had knowledge of the gathering, or an unlawful gathering had taken place on their property within the prior 180 days.
• Report any unsafe gatherings or safety concerns immediately to Gilbert PD by calling 480-503-6500 or 9-1-1 in emergencies.

Have a fun and safe Halloween, Gilbert.