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Halloween is just around the corner, and many parents are probably already scrambling to find just the right costume for their little goblins.
While making preparations, parents also should keep in mind the importance of safety on this ghoulish holiday.
Local law enforcement agencies encourage adults to accompany young children while trick-or-treating and for older children to stay within the neighborhood and visit only homes they know. Children should watch for traffic and motorists should use extra caution during trick-or-treat hours.
Some costumes can get pretty creative, but parents should recognize their child's ability to manuever inside a dinosaur body or even a princess gown. It is recommended that children wear light-colored clothing that is short enough to prevent tripping. As a precaution, reflective tape can be added to any costume. If possible, carry a flashlight.
If wearing a mask, make sure the child can see out of the eye holes. Makeup is an alternative to wearing a mask.
Hard plastic or wooden props, such as daggers and swords, should be avoided. Try to find something made of foam rubber or another flexible material.
Residents should avoid placing candle-lighted pumpkins or other decorations on the pathway to their doors or on doorsteps where fabric costumes could catch fire.
Fido and Fifi might be a bit frightened by skeletons or even pint-sized canine impersonators, so keep costumed children away from pets to avoid unnecessary injury from an animal that doesn't recognize its boy or girl.
Only give and accept wrapped or packaged candy, and examine all candy before allowing a child to eat it. To prevent the risk of choking, parents should make sure candies are age-appropriate: don't give children under age 5 jawbreakers or hard candies.
