The Virginian-Pilot
                             THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT 

              Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.



DATE: Tuesday, October 29, 1996             TAG: 9610290331

SECTION: LOCAL                   PAGE: B3   EDITION: FINAL 

SOURCE: STAFF REPORT 
                                            LENGTH:   32 lines


HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

Thursday is no ordinary school night. It's Halloween - time for children 12 and under to hit the streets in a frenzy of monster madness commonly known as trick-or-treating.

This year, trick-or-treating begins at dusk in South Hampton Roads' cities and officially ends at 8 p.m.

A word of caution: Anyone older than 12 who engages in trick-or-treat activities is subject to a fine.

Here are some guidelines for a safe Halloween, from the Virginia Beach Public Information Office:

If you are passing out treats, turn your porch light on. If you're not, keep your porch light off to avoid being called on.

Make sure your children can see through face masks, and dress them in light-colored clothing short enough to prevent tripping.

Carry a flashlight.

Clear your yard and walkway of tools, toys and other things trick-or-treaters could trip over.

Accompany young children.

Stay within your neighborhood and go only to houses whose residents you know.

Examine candy before allowing your children to eat it.

Give and accept only wrapped or packaged candy.

Keep jack-o'-lanterns away from where costumes might brush against the candle flames. by CNB