Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is encouraging community members to get to know their neighbours this Halloween.

'With more children enjoying dressing up for Halloween and going house to house, it's a good opportunity to get to know your neighbours so go with the children and introduce yourself,” says WBOP Neighbourhood Support manager Bruce Banks.

'We're fortunate that we're in summer time so it's light outside, but take extra care on this fun evening. Let the kids enjoy their night and get to know your neighbours.”

The group has also issued a series of tips to help keep WBOP families safe whilst trick or treating.

1. Provide adult supervision - Trick or treat is safer and more fun – in groups with an adult. Get together with other adults in your neighbourhood and make an evening of it.
2. Stay on the footpaths – Kids can often get distracted while dressed up and in a group. An adult should help them cross the road.
3. Carefully check sweets - Check for choking hazards like gum and hard candies. Throw away anything not sealed with a wrapper and avoid homemade treats.
4. Choose bright, visible costumes - Stick some reflective tape on their trick-or-treat bags as well so they can be easily spotted by motorists. Make sure the costume won't be a trip hazard or masks block vision. Face paint can often be better. Swords and canes shouldn't be sharp. Take make-up off before bed.
5. Safe homes - If you're turning your home into a haunted house, keep safety in mind. Make sure steps, porches and paths are well-lit and free of decorations. Keep decorations away from fireplaces and candles.
6. Use extra caution while driving - Drivers need to take particular care on this night. Drive slowly through a neighbourhood, watch for kids who may dart into the road without looking.