NATCHEZ — Natchez, Vidalia and Ferriday leaders say they  hope the community has a safe and happy Halloween Tuesday.

Natchez Police Chief Walter Armstrong said he asks the community heed to the city’s official timeframe for trick or treating from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday. In Ferriday, the timeline is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Vidalia 5 to 7:30 p.m.

During those times area law enforcement asks motorists to be extra careful to pay attention for children.

“Kids out trick or treating might not be safety conscious when it comes to vehicles,” Armstrong said. “If you are going out after dark, I want parents to make sure they bring a flashlight and the children are wearing reflective clothing.”

Children should be with adults or a responsible teenager while trick or treating, Armstrong said. Armstrong said typically residents meet trick or treaters on the porch and a child should not enter a stranger’s residence without adult supervision.

“It is always safer to trick or treat in your neighborhood where you might be familiar with the people who live there,” Armstrong said.

Before allowing children to consume any treats, Armstrong asked parents to check candy and throw away anything that does not have a wrapper. He said to also be on the lookout for foreign objects.

Ferriday Police Department Investigator Richard Madison said parents should make sure the children have a snack before they go out trick or treating so they will not try to get into the candy before they return home and be distracted while walking on roadways.

Vidalia Police Chief Joey Merrill echoed concerns about checking treats.

“Hopefully we don’t have that kind of person in Vidalia, but you never know,” he said. “It is a good idea to check just as a safety precaution.”

Madison asked parents to keep children away from areas with dogs and said to not go to residences where the lights are not on.

“I also want to ask the citizens to support the kids and be nice to them,” Madison said. “I want everyone to have a safe and happy Halloween.

“But safety comes first. If you are suspicious of any items, contact the police.”

Armstrong said those who want to trick or treat in a safer environment have options. He said several churches would have Trunk or Treat events. Downtown Natchez will also feature Trick or Treat for Little Feet beginning at St. Mary Basilica from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The St. Mary youth group is also hosting a haunted house from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday at the church. The entrance is at the church’s elevator. Admission is $3 or $7 for an unlimited admission wristband. Funding will be used for a summer youth trip.

Ferriday Mayor Sherrie Jacobs said the town is hosting an official Trunk or Treat at Haney’s Big House from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday that will feature candy, face painting, jumpers food and games. Jacobs said the game truck would be present as well as a picture-taking frame.

“We are trying to keep the kids safe,” Jacobs said. “We would love to see families bring their children to this event so they are in a safe, fun place.”

Jacobs also said Ferriday Junior High School would host a haunted house in its gym. The event is 6 to 6:30 p.m. for children and 7 to 9 p.m.  Saturday for all ages. Admission is $5.

In Vidalia, Marketing Coordinator Hannah Junkin said the Concordia Emerging Leaders have a Trick or Trot event featuring a 5K at 9 a.m. and a children fun run at 9:45 a.m. Saturday on the Vidalia Riverfront. During the children’s run, candy would be tossed out from sponsored tables.

Junkin said the event is $30 for adults and $20 for children. People receive a T-shirt and a portion of the proceeds will go to Operation G.R.I.T.S., which is a nonprofit that ships gifts overseas to military.

“I hope you have fun but please be safe,” she said. “Drive safely and keep the kids in mind on Halloween night.”

Merrill and Armstrong also wished the community a happy Halloween.

“Let’s have a happy and safe holiday,” Armstrong said.