Toronto will celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treat hours from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday.

City leaders have said the city's safety forces will be patrolling neighborhoods, helping ensure a safe holiday for children.

Those residents inviting trick-or-treaters should leave a porch light on. Residents who do so also should be aware there will be children in various costumes knocking on their doors that evening seeking treats. Nothing could be more disappointing to a child than knocking on a door only to find the residence isn't prepared with some sweet goodie for their Halloween bag. Participating residents should make sure they have something to give children.

Parents of children younger than 10 should accompany their children or make arrangements with a trusted guardian to ensure their child will be safe.

Children should be reminded - often - to stay out of the street and be extra cautious when crossing the street. Sometimes in times of exuberance children forget what they have often been taught. They should also be taught never to assume a driver can see or will yield to them. Staying on city sidewalks is the best way to go door to door.

Children and parents also should be aware the annual Halloween parade sponsored by the Toronto American Legion Post 86 will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday at the city gazebo commons.

Children are advised to to be at the gazebo prior to 3 p.m.

The parade will be led by the City Police and Toronto Fire Department and also end at the gazebo. Representatives from the Legion will pass out candy bags after the parade, while a drawing will be held for 20 Wal-Mart gift certificates.

With everyone's assistance this year's Halloween celebration can be a safe and happy one for the city's children.