Halloween can be dangerous for children

NEW YORK, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- A U.S. doctor warns that Halloween decorations accounted for an estimated 1,000 home fires, and $10.7 million in direct property damage in 2002.

Pediatrician Dr. Ari Brown says children under age 13 are 136 percent more likely to be killed or injured as pedestrians between 3 and 9 p.m. on Halloween than on other days in October and November.

Before children go trick-or-treating, Brown recommends feeding them a filling, healthy dinner, said parents should plan costumes that are bright and reflective, and add reflective tape to trick-or-treat bags.

Since masks can obscure vision, he said parents should consider nontoxic makeup and hats instead and have children go in a group. But if a child is small an adult should go as well, Brown added.

Remove wet leaves and obstructions from the front yard and sidewalk and make always and porches well lit, Brown said, sort through the candy and only allow treats that are wrapped and safe.