LUMBERTON — Children on a sugar hunt, vehicles and darkness make a dangerous combination, according to Sheriff Kenneth Sealey, who has some recommendations on how to keep safe during the scary holiday of Halloween.

“Halloween should be filled with surprise and enjoyment, and following some common sense practices can keep events safer and more fun,” Sealey said.

St. Pauls tricker-or-treaters are the first up as they will be combing neighborhoods from 5 to 8 tonight, which coincides with the town’s monthly Night Out.

Everyone else in Robeson County should get their goodies on Monday.

Children will hit the streets in Fairmont from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Dr. Electrode and the Farmers Festival Queens will be on the front porch of Town Hall giving out treats.

Lumberton, Red Springs and Rowland have all have designated 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday for trick-or-treating, and Pembroke is holding its from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Monday. Maxton trick-or-treaters will be out from 5 to 9 p.m.

Motorists are asked to watch for children darting out from between parked cars and walking on roadways and curbs, as well as those wearing dark clothing.

The following suggestions from the Sheriff’s Department will help make sure your little pumpkin is safe this Halloween.

— A parent or adult should always accompany children on their neighborhood rounds.

— Children should only knock on well-lit houses and never enter a stranger’s home.

— All children should know their home phone number and how to call 911 in case of an emergency.

— Trick-or treaters should carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.

— Children should stick to sidewalks and left side of the road facing traffic instead of cutting through yards.

— Children should not eat unwrapped candy, and parents should inspect candy before the child eats it.

— When shopping for costumes, select those that are brightly colored and will reflect light.

— Secure hats, masks and scarves to keep them from obscuring a child’s vision.

— Children should walk, not run, from house to house to avoid falls.