Halloween costumes are supposed to be scary, but not because they're made in an unsafe fashion. Fortunately, it's relatively easy to make sure your young hobgoblins are attired in safety-conscious garments on that frightful night. Some things to keep in mind:

1. Wear makeup instead of a mask, or choose a mask that allows for unobstructed sight and hearing.
2. Buy costumes, wigs, and other accessories that are flame-resistant. And have kids rehearse the "Stop, Drop, and Roll" technique in case their clothes do catch on fire.
3. Write emergency identification information (name, address, phone number) discreetly within the costume or on a makeshift bracelet made of a strip of light-colored cloth.
4. Make sure the costume has enough room for warm clothing underneath. A cold child is an inattentive child.
5. Plan costumes that are easily seen on dark nights by drivers. Add reflective tape (you can even buy it in spooky gray) to too-dark outfits. Make sure costumes are short enough that kids don't trip on them or inadvertently brush them against the low-lying flames in jack-o'-lanterns and candles.
6. Avoid simulated knives, guns, or swords. If you can't, make sure they're soft and flexible enough to prevent injury.