By Natalie Vaughan
UHCLIDIAN STAFF

On Halloween night, hidden among the excitement of goodies, games and parties is a dark side, full of potential danger. Being aware of the dangers and learning tips to avoid them can help keep the holiday safe this year.

A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that during 1975-1996, the number of deaths among young pedestrians was four times higher on Halloween evening than the same time period during all other evenings of the year.

Unnecessary travel should be avoided Halloween night to help prevent these accidents. When traveling, drivers must be alert and drive slowly. A child's small size limits their visibility to drivers, so motorists need to be ready for a child's unpredictable actions. Also, a driver must be prepared for possible pranks by being cautious of other drivers and responding responsibly.

"I think there should be more cops on street corners acting as stopping guards to protect children from people rubbernecking looking at elaborate costumes and Halloween decorations," said Israel Chapa, fireman and paramedic for Refinery Terminal Fire Company.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that all clothing sold in the U.S. be made of fabrics that don't easily ignite.

"Garments that burn faster than newspaper can meet this minimal standard," said Ann Brown, chairman of the CPSC. "The standard wasn't designed with children's costumes in mind and does not safeguard children from hazards with some Halloween costumes."

Knowing the risk involved, partygoers and trick-or-treaters need to stay away from open flames including cigarettes, candles and jack-o-lanterns. Avoid purchasing baggy costumes and those with boas and beards. When making costumes, use flame resistant fabrics such as polyester and nylon. Do not apply household items such as cotton balls, streamers, straw or tissue paper.

Symbolic of evil and for bringing bad luck to others, the black cat becomes victim of many Halloween pranks. These pranks lead to injury, abuse and sometimes the cat's death. Continually opening the door to trick-or-treaters poses another hazard for pets on Halloween night. A pet can slip out the door and face the same increased risks as pedestrians on Halloween night. The Humane Society recommends keeping all pets confined indoors in a room away from any Halloween excitement.

To insure a product has not been contaminated, parents need to inspect candy. Homemade or unwrapped treats should be discarded because there's no way to insure its safety.

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