With witches, goblins and super-heroes descending on neighborhoods across Hempstead Town I would like to offer parents some safety tips to help prepare your children for a safe and enjoyable Halloween.

There are many ways to keep your children safe at Halloween and help them to avoid accidents and injuries associated with the "trick-or-treat" experience. Halloween should be filled with fun and enjoyment, and observing some common sense practices can keep events safe and exciting. The following are some Halloween safety guidelines for the family:

If buying a costume, buy one made of flame-retardant material and make sure the costume is short enough to prevent tripping. Secure identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire. Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards in the yard or walkway.

Although tampering is rare, have children bring the candy home to be inspected before they consume anything. Look at the wrapping carefully and throw out anything that looks suspect. To help prevent children from munching while trick-or-treating, give them a snack or light meal before they go trick-or-treating.

Ideally, an adult should accompany young children. If children go on their own, have them carry quarters with them so they can call home. It's a good idea to stay in familiar neighborhoods when trick-or-treating and approach houses that are lighted. Children should wear a watch that can be read in the dark.

I hope everyone enjoys a safe and happy Halloween.