The spookiest time of the year is right around the corner.

The weather is cooler and many people will soon start thinking about how to celebrate with the ghouls and goblins. As you prepare to enjoy this Halloween season, Alabama Power wants it to be a safe and memorable experience for your family.

Whether trick-or-treating with children or attending an event, please keep these safety measures in mind:

• Children under 12 should always have adult supervision while trick-or-treating.
• Walk in groups, use crosswalks and be aware of your surroundings.
• Have a safe, well-lit route mapped out and have an emergency plan in place.
• Drive slowly through neighborhoods and avoid busy streets.
• Costumes should not impair a child’s vision and should fit properly to prevent stumbles and falls.
• Always wear reflective, light-colored clothing. Carry glow sticks or flashlights.
• Pay attention to road signs and signals.
• Secure all cellphones. Emergency phone numbers should be pre-programmed.
• Keep your sidewalk and steps well-lit when distributing candy.
• Get to know your neighbors and let them know you are celebrating Halloween.
• To prevent shock from electrical decorations, outdoor circuits should have ground-fault circuit-interrupters.
• Properly secure any electrical cords along the path to your doorway.
• Do not fray or cut electrical cords when decorating.
• Turn off Halloween decorations at bedtime.

If there are safety issues in your area, call Alabama Power at 1-800-888-2726 or 1-800-245-2244 as soon as possible to report the problem.

Take time for the family and enjoy a safe and happy Halloween!

(The Electrical Safety Foundation International and Safe Kids World Wide contributed to the Halloween Safety tips list.)