ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Can you believe Halloween is less than a week away? Here are some safety tips to remember so the only scaries are the fun scaries.

First, kids costumes. A mask could be dangerous for many different reasons when trick-or-treating.

Use face paint instead. With it, they’ll be able to see more clearly. Here are some other tips for trick-or-treating:

1. Make sure they’re wearing something reflective so drivers can see them
2. Talk to them about traffic safety, like looking both ways
3. Encourage kids to stick together and stick to familiar areas

Parents, your kids will come home with loot! Before you let them dig in, you need to check their candy bags:

1. Look for candy that is already open; if open, throw it out
2. Throw out homemade treats, unless you know who made it
3. Remove any choking hazards like gum, hard candies and small toys, if your kids are young

In general, when in doubt, throw it out.

Another activity is pumpkin carving. When knives are involved, it can be dangerous.

A good way to avoid trouble? Leave the carving to the adults. Let your kids trace the design and scoop out the insides.

Also, instead of candles, use battery-operated lights or glowsticks.

Another fun and scary good time? Haunted houses. Remember a few things before you enter, especially if a house uses fog machines:

1. Wear a mask if you have asthma
2. Go to haunted houses in groups
3. Leave small children at home
4. Wear appropriate shoes