Halloween

* Design costumes large enough so that warm clothing can be worn underneath and to fit properly so children can walk without tripping or entangling their feet. Wigs and beards should be attached properly so they don't get into the child's eyes, obscuring vision.

* Clothing catching fire is a danger. Be sure store bought costumes are marked "flame proofed" or "fire retardant". Home-made costumes should be treated with a solution of borax and borax acid to enhance their fire retardant qualities. To be safe, children should stay a good distance from open flame and intense heat.

* Children should carry flashlights, light colored trick-or-treat bags or use reflective tape so they can see better and be easily seen by motorists. Don't allow children to carry sharp objects - make knives, swords and other accessories from cardboard to avoid injury.

* Children should walk on sidewalks, not on streets and always cross at intersections or crosswalks. Wait for proper traffic signals when crossing streets and never run into the street from between parked cars or you may be hit by on coming traffic.

* Tell your children to trick-or-treat in their own neighborhood and in well lighted areas. Make sure children are accompanied by an adult or responsible teenager when they go door-to-door or go with them yourself if possible.

* Instruct children not to eat anything until they are home and treats have been examined. Throw away anything unwrapped and check wrappers of commercial treats for signs of tampering. Be sure children know not to enter a strangers home while trick-or-treating.

* Lighted candles used for decoration indoors can be hazardous. Autumn leaves, cornstalks, berry branches and similar decorations are dry. Do not use smoking material, light bulbs or open flame (i.e. candles) near these decorations.