We've got a busy few days ahead with trick-or-treating, Halloween parties, sporting events, changing all the clocks back an hour on Sunday and, yes, no school on Monday and Tuesday for Loudoun County Public School students.

Oh, and then there's that little election coming up on Tuesday.

Below are a few important reminders and tips to keep you and your family safe.

Loudoun County Sheriff Steve Simpson released some Halloween safety tips yesterday to keep your boys and ghouls safe while trick-or-treating:

• Adults should accompanying young trick-or-treaters.
• Carry a flashlight and watch for traffic.
• Stay within the neighborhood and only visit homes of people you know.
• Give out and accept only wrapped or packaged candy; Examine treats before allowing kids to eat them.
• Make sure children can see through masks; Wear light-colored clothing that's short enough to prevent tripping; Add reflective tape to costume; Avoid hard plastic or wooden props like daggers and swords.
• Keep pets that may frighten easily away from costumed kids.

Click here for more Loudoun Halloween tips and information.

Also, if you'll be partaking in witches brew over the weekend, Simpson reminds adults to plan ahead. Call a cab or use a designated driver if you will be consuming alcohol.

The Loudoun County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management reminds residents to change all smoke alarm batteries in your home right after turning the clocks back Sunday morning. If a smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, replace it.

Chief Fire Marshal Keith Brower said in a statement, "The peak time for home fire fatalities is between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. when most families are sleeping. Smoke alarm maintenance is a simple, effective way to reduce home fire deaths. Children and senior citizens are most at risk, and a working smoke alarm can give them the extra seconds they need to get out safely."

For more information about smoke alarms and how to plan an emergency exit strategy in your home, click here.

Have a safe and happy Halloween, LoCo! And don't forget to send us your photos of tonight's costumed fun.