Fright Night Tips for Parents

Newswise — Halloween doesn't have to be scary for parents, notes Katherine Terry, M.P.H., of UAB's Injury Control Research Center. "Stay in familiar, well-lighted areas and plan their route," she said, "and only visit homes that have porch or outside lights on." Terry also recommends that parents make sure hats and masks can't slip over a child's eyes, use fire resistant material for homemade costumes and avoid letting children wear mom or dad's dangerously oversized shoes. She cautions that falls are a leading cause of injury on Halloween. Costumes and unfamiliar neighborhoods are the chief culprits. Drivers should slow down and watch for ghosts and goblins crossing the streets