Halloween is an exciting time of year for children, and we can all make sure that children have a safe holiday with the following tips:

"All Dressed Up …"
 

• Because they can obstruct a child's vision, masks are not recommended. If a child wears makeup, parents should look for nontoxic, hypoallergenic kits.
• Costumes should be flame-retardant and fit properly. Avoid oversized shoes, high heels and long skirts or pants that could cause a child to fall.
• Children who will be trick-or-treating after dusk should have reflective tape on their costumes and carry flashlights.

"Carving a Niche …"
 

• Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers; then parents can do the cutting. Under parents' supervision, children ages 5 to 10 can carve with pumpkin cutters equipped with safety bars.
• Votive candles are safest for candlelit pumpkins.
• Lighted pumpkins should be placed on a sturdy table, away from curtains and other flammable objects and should never be left unattended.

"Healthy Halloween …"
 

• Serve children a healthy dinner (with foods they like) before trick-or-treating, so they won't fill up on candy.
• Offer trick-or-treaters something other than candy. Give them colorful pencils, stickers, large erasers or decorative shoelaces.
• Set a number of days candy can remain in the house before it gets thrown out.
• Children should not snack while they are trick-or-treating. Parents should check treats at home.
• Watch for signs of tampering, such as small pinholes in wrappers and torn or loose packages.
• Parents of young children should get rid of choking hazards, such as gum, peanuts, hard candies or small toys.

"Home Safe Home …"
 

• To keep their home safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove anything a child could trip over, such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations.
• Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.
• Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps.
• Remember that Halloween is for children of all ages … so get involved with your little ghost or goblin!