COMMON SENSE COMBATS HAZARDS OF HALLOWEEN

With common sense, this Halloween can be a treat for our children.

Tomorrow is Halloween, a favorite holiday of children. But it's also a potentially dangerous night for kids. If parents and adults keep safety in the forefront, the holiday should progress without incident.

There are many dangers lurking in the shadows on Halloween. Thursday's forecast calls for rainy weather. With the end to Daylight Savings Time, darkness comes much earlier. The darkness and rain could combine for hazardous driving conditions. Motorists should be watchful as excited children might run into the streets without looking.

Loose or ill-fitting costumes, bulky treat bags and unsafe shoes can also create hazards. Masks can impair vision as children trick or treat; makeup may create the same effect without obstructing vision. All trick or treaters should carry flashlights and stay to the sidewalks instead of the streets.

Parents should also remember that some flowing Halloween costumes or false wigs create fire hazards if children walk too near jack-o-lanterns or outdoor candles. Costumes that are light colored, non-restrictive and flame retardant are best.

Adults should accompany all younger children, and it's best to keep visits to familiar neighborhoods.

This region has been fortunate in that few cases of tainted treats have been reported. But parents shouldn't take any chances. All candy should be examined when children return home. Any loose, unpackaged or opened candy should be discarded. Any problems with treats should be reported to the police immediately.

With concerns about tampering, more people are handing out gift certificates, coupons or novelties. It's a good trend. With such horror stories of razor blades and pins in other parts of the country, this practice would negate any question of tampered goodies.

Homeowners also have a duty to make their premises safe for trick-or-treaters. They should remove all obstacles from the lawn, porch or steps. If you plan to hand out candy, keep the house and path to the door brightly lit.

Many parents are also taking advantage of trick-or-treat alternatives, which can help ensure a safe holiday. Many churches and groups host safe Halloween parties. The largest of its kind is scheduled at the West Park Mall Thursday night. Children trick or treat from store to store and participate in costume contests. Mall merchants are to be commended for hosting this community-minded event, which has proved a huge success. About 2,500 youngsters are expected this year. It's an especially good idea on rainy Halloween nights.

Halloween can be a hazardous night for our children. But proper planning and an eye to safety, the tricks should be far and few between.