BEDFORD, N.H. — Chief John Bryfonski and the Bedford Police Department are offering residents Halloween safety tips and practices as they prepare to take their children trick-or-treating.

Halloween, which is celebrated on Oct. 31, falls on a Monday this year. Designated trick-or-treat hours in Bedford are from 6 to 8 p.m.

Police also remind residents to use caution as they celebrate the weekend prior to Halloween, Oct. 28-30.

In addition, police urge drivers to slow down and keep watch for the high volume of pedestrians expected on neighborhood roads.

“Keeping the community safe is a community responsibility,” Chief Bryfonski said. “Parents should accompany their children while trick-or-treating throughout the weekend, and drivers should be extra cautious of pedestrians. In addition, Bedford Police will be out in full patrol: drunk driving and speeding will not be tolerated.”

The Bedford Police Department recommends that residents follow safety tips outlined by the Centers for Disease Control, which ask that people follow the “Safe Halloween” motto.

• Swords and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.

• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

• Fasten reflective tape on costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

• Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before you eat them.

• Hold a flashlight while walking to ensure that you are visible. Walk and don’t run from house to house.

• Always test make up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

• Lower your risk of serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

• Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever  possible.

• Only walk on sidewalks wherever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe and to prevent accidents or injury.

• Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.

• Eat only factory-wrapped candy. Avoid eating homemade treats offered by strangers.

• Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Never accept rides from strangers.

• Never walk near lit candles or devices with open flames. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Any parents or residents with questions on Halloween safety should contact their local police department.