Keep your kids safe: trick-or-treat safety tips

DENVER -- When knocking on doors in the hopes of receiving a sugary treat this year, safety should be the first -- not the last thought. 

Halloween Monday is the warmest in more than 50 years -- meaning kids will be out at all hours of the night, but it also creates new problems for parents and homeowners. 

Police officials are advising homeowners to take three actions to prevent any potential crime or vandalism for families who may be out or trick-or-treating.

1. Arm security systems.
2. Take caution to lock vehicles, and the doors and windows of your home.
3. Leave lights or a television on inside the home so would-be criminals can't be sure if anybody is home. 

For the thousands of parents who will be out on the streets with their children, officials are urging another set of cautious steps. 

1. Even if wearing a dark outfit, use reflective tape or flashing lights in the outfit. 
2. Always be aware of surroundings, including watching for cars in the streets. 
3. Don't be out too late, try to be in by 9 p.m., when many people begin heading to bed for work the next day. 
4. Always inspect candy before consuming. Don't eat candy with broken wrappers, that may have been tampered with or could be expired. 

Another word of caution: Police say it's common courtesy to avoid trick-or-treating at any house that doesn't have a porch with lights on. 

"It might be unoccupied, somebody inside could be immobile, have babies sleeping, or were so popular that they no longer have candy to distribute. 

Drivers are also urged to be cautious, as due to the weather, children could be out later at night and may not be clothed in bright clothing.