It is always a bit of a surprise to see a tall ghost when we open our door on Halloween. Some young adolescents find it hard to give up the practice of trick or treating. And many, particularly young, adults use the holiday as an excuse to have elaborate dress up costume parties. The attraction of Halloween for both children and adults is the opportunity to take on a different identity in a socially acceptable venue. We all want, and indeed need, to get out of ourselves at times and this is particularly true for children. Children are relatively small and powerless and dressing up in a scary costume gives them the chance to imagine themselves as someone they might like to be (this year it is Michael Jackson) or whom they might otherwise fear (the ghost, the witch).

While Halloween is fun for both children and adults, it does not come without its risks. More child accidents happen on Halloween than on any other holiday.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers a number of helpful, common sense tips on making Halloween safe for everyone involved;

For Parents:

• It is important to insure that the front porch is well lighted, and that the steps are clear of wet slippery leaves so common at this time of year.
   
• As for treats, the best course is commercially wrapped candy rather than anything homemade. Although well intentioned, children do not really appreciate toothbrushes and tooth paste as a treat. (My sons stopped going to the dentist who always handed these out in lieu of candy.)

For Children:

• Costumes that are well fitted and that are made of fire resistant fabric are the best.
   
• Hypo-allergic make up is preferable to masks, which may limit the child’s vision. Most children prefer make up to masks so it is usually not a problem.
   
• If the costume involves props like swords or pitch forks make sure these are soft, smooth and pliable. It is also a good practice to put strips of reflective tape on the back and sleeves of the child’s costume.
   
• If children go out after dark they should have a strong flashlight with fresh batteries.

There are other common sense cautions that should be remembered;

• Young children under the age of six or seven should never go out on their own and should only go out with parents or older children. Whether young or old, children should always go out in groups and never go out alone.


• Before going out children should be cautioned never to go into a person’s car or house and only go to those houses which are well lighted and welcoming.
   
• Finally, serving children a good, even scary, Halloween dinner may keep tummies full until the children get home and the loot can be inspected and sorted out.

Halloween can be, and should be, an enjoyable, fun time for children and adults alike. Taking a few precautions can insure that it is just that.