Make this year's holiday a safe one by following these safety tips on
costumes, treats and decorations:

Costumes

When purchasing costumes, masks, beards and wigs, look for
flame-resistant fabrics such as nylon or polyester, or look for the
label "Flame Resistant." Flame-resistant fabrics will resist burning and
should extinguish quickly. 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.

*  For greater visibility during dusk and darkness, decorate or trim
costumes with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's
headlights. Bags or sacks also should be light colored or decorated with
reflective tape. Reflective tape is usually available in hardware,
bicycle and sporting goods stores.

*  Children should carry flashlights to see and be seen.
Costumes should fit well and not drag on the ground to guard against
trips and falls.

*  Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes. Oversized high heels
are not a good idea.

*  Tie hats and scarves securely to prevent them from slipping over
children's eyes and obstructing vision.

*  If your child wears a mask, make sure it fits securely, provides
adequate ventilation, and has eye holes large enough to allow full
vision.
Swords, knives and similar costume accessories should be made of soft,
flexible materials.