*This is an archive page. The links are no longer being updated. 
 1994.
10.24 :  Halloween Cautions      

Contact:   Bonnie Aikman     (202) 690-6867
Monday, Oct. 24, 1994

    
         HALLOWEEN DARKNESS THREATENS GHOULS AND GOBLINS

     The switch to Standard Time Oct. 30 adds an extra hour of
darkness, making Halloween automobile traffic hazardous to young
ghosts and goblins out begging for treats, the U.S. Public Health
Service warned today.

     The PHS advised parents to make certain trick-or-treaters can
see and be seen, and asked that parents also examine children's
treats to be sure they have not been tampered with.

     Philip R. Lee, M.D., HHS assistant secretary for health and
head of the Public Health Service, said the holiday can be
especially hazardous for young pedestrians.  "Many motorists won't
be accustomed to the darkness that accompanies standard time and may
not expect children to be out.  Children can have their vision
obscured by costumes, too," he said.

     Dr. Lee also said incidents in which children have become ill
or injured after eating food that has been tampered with make it
important that parents examine all treats.  

     PHS recommends that:

     --To help drivers see youngsters clearly, each child should
wear something easily visible at night.  White, reflective or
florescent material can be used in their costumes.  Kids can also
carry "magic wands" -- decorated flashlights.

     --Wigs, hats or masks that obscure a child's vision should be
replaced or altered.  Makeup, for example, can be used instead of a
sight-blocking mask.

     --Treats should go into a sturdy bag to be reviewed by parents
before anything is eaten.  This should include an inspection to make
certain no foreign objects (especially needles or bits of glass) are
imbedded in them.  Local law enforcement authorities should be
contacted if tampering is suspected.  All fruit should be washed
thoroughly and any food which parents suspect may be spoiled should
be thrown out.

     --Parents should see that children eat no more than moderate
amounts of candy every day or so, since some ingredients used in
them may cause bloating or diarrhea if eaten to excess.

     --Youngsters should go trick-or-treating in a group and follow
a prescribed route that includes only those homes of people parents
know and trust.  Parents should always accompany very young
children.

      If parents feel a neighborhood isn't safe enough for trick-or-
treating, they can invite other parents to help them create a
traditional Halloween party -- with homemade treats, apple-bobbing
and prizes for the best costumes. 

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