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U.S. CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION OFFERS TRICK-OR-TREATING TIPS

It's time for trick-or-treating on Friday night. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers several tips for children on Halloween.

TREATS

Warn children not to eat any treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering.

FLAME-RESISTANT COSTUMES

When purchasing a costume, masks, beards and wigs, look for the label flame resistant. Although this label does not mean these items won't catch fire, it does indicate the items will resist burning and should extinguish quickly once removed from the ignition source. To minimize the risk of contact with candles or other sources of ignition, avoid costumes made with flimsy materials and outfits with big, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts.

COSTUME DESIGNS

Purchase or make costumes that are light and bright enough to be 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 should also be light colored or decorated with reflective tape. Reflective tape usually is available in hardware, bicycle and sporting goods stores.

* To easily see and be seen, children should also carry flashlights.

* Costumes should be short enough to prevent children from tripping and falling.

* Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes.

* Hats and scarves should be tied securely to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.

* Apply a natural mask of cosmetics rather than have a child wear a loose-fitting mask that might restrict breathing or obscure vision. If a mask is used, however, make sure it fits securely and has eyeholes large enough to allow full vision.

* Swords, knives and similar costume accessories should be of soft and flexible material.