REMEMBER TO HAVE CHILDREN TRICK OR TREAT SAFELY

As the little ghosts, goblins, demons, witches and super heroes prepare to haunt our neighborhoods next week in search of a full bag of goodies, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help make the Halloween holiday free of injuries.

Trick or treating, of course, begins with dressing up in costume. To minimize the risk of contact with candles and other fire sources, avoid costumes made with flimsy materials and outfits with big, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts. Purchase or make costumes that are light, bright and clearly visible to motorists. Visibility during dusk or darkness can be increased by decorating or trimming costumes with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's headlights. Bags or sacks should also be decorated with reflective tape. This is usually available in hardware, bicycle and sporting goods stores. Children should carry flashlights to see easily and aid in being seen. Costumes should be short enough so that children won't trip and fall and they should wear well fitting, sturdy shoes. It is also a good idea to have a mask that is adjustable or removable to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.

Our little goblins should stalk their way through the neighborhoods on sidewalks and not in the street. A route should be planned in advance with a family member and if possible an adult should accompany the children.

Trick or treat in neighborhoods that you know well and visit homes that have porch lights on. Accept treats at the door and never go into a stranger's house. Warn children not to eat any treats before an adult has examined them carefully for evidence of tampering. Don't eat candy if the package has already been opened. If any item seems off-color, has an odor or is of questionable appearance or if for any other reason there is any doubt throw it out. If you discover signs of definite tampering contact your local police or Sheriff's Department to make a report or contact the Regional Poison Center for Missouri at 1-800-366-8888. Feed your child just before going trick or treating so he or she won't be tempted to snack, or furnish a child with treats from home to eat while trick or treating.

Sometimes parents may hand out small toys or coins in lieu of candy. This is a very nice alternative although some of these very small items may present a choking hazard if swallowed by a small child. Examine your child' s bag carefully for tiny items that may be harmful.

Teach children how to call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) in case they become lost and remind them that this can be dialed free at any pay phone. Also review with your children the principle of "stop-drop-roll" should their clothes catch on fire. And, of course, openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time and set your expectations for their good behavior. When crossing streets be certain to pause, look and listen. Do not assume that the children have the right of way and certainly do not assume that motorists can see you.

As you prepare for Halloween, use your imagination and creativity to have fun but keep safety in mind and, of course, beware and be prepared as those little carbohydrate-seeking demons, monsters and goblins descend upon our neighborhoods next week.

World Wide Web sources

www.babybag.com This web site provided by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission gives information for parents about Halloween safety. There are recommendations for costumes, trick or treating, and Halloween candy inspection.