The San Diego Police Officers Association reminded trick-or-treaters not to venture out alone tonight and to remain visible.
The organization issued a series of tips for a safe Halloween:
-- parents should accompany young children and inspect their loot when they return home;
-- bring a flashlight or glow stick, and attach reflective tape to costumes and candy bags to be visible to drivers;
-- make sure children can see through their masks;
-- simulated knives and guns shouldn't look too realistic;
-- keep costumes away from open flames, especially pumpkins with candles; and
-- drive very carefully.
The POA also said people staying home to pass out candy should welcome trick-or-treaters with their exterior lights on.
The county of San Diego will host three free Halloween carnivals to provide a safe environment for children's activities.
The events will feature food and games, and the county Parks and Recreation Department has invited youngsters to attend in costume.
The carnivals begin at 5 p.m. at La Paloma Elementary School, 300 Heald Lane in Fallbrook; and the Lakeside Community Center, 9841 Vine St. The third one starts at 5:30 p.m. at the Spring Valley Community Center, 8735 Jamacha Blvd.
The Grossmont Center mall will offer trick-or-treating for little ones in its food court and participating stores beginning at 3 p.m.
Earlier today, students at UC San Diego held their 38th annual Halloween Festival and Monster Pumpkin Drop. They wrestled a 250-pound candy-filled gourd over the side of 11-story Tioga Hall, the tallest building on the Muir College campus, as about 200 people watched, said school spokeswoman Christine Clark.
The students in the Muir Residents Council named the great pumpkin "That Thun Thun Thun,'' after the song "Don't Drop That Thun Thun'' by Finatticz.
Candy, seeds and rind splattered about 85 feet, according to Clark. In 1995, students let loose a 398-pounder that spread debris for 100 feet, she said.
UCSD students also held a costume contest at the Price Center West Plaza.
