ST. LOUIS -- It's a scary time for all Americans, adults and children alike. So some parents are questioning whether it may be appropriate this year to tone down their child's Halloween costume in light of recent world events.

Ken Haller, M.D., assistant professor of pediatrics at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, said that decision should depend on the individual child.

"Some kids will still want to be monsters and villains, while others will want to be clowns and princesses," Haller said. "I think it is important for children to act on their feelings, especially in light of these dramatic world events. Every child is different." But no matter what costume your child picks this year, Dr. Haller warned that Halloween can be a dangerous time for kids in any given year.

"The excitement of the night can cause children to forget their usual sense of safety," said Haller, a SLUCare pediatrician working at SSM Cardinal Glennon Hospital.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that roughly four times as many children between the ages of 5 and 14 are killed while walking on Halloween evening compared with other nights of the year. The leading cause of injuries among children is accidental falls from tripping over costume hems, steps, curbs or unseen objects.

Being aware of tips to improve safety can help parents make the most of Halloween for themselves and their children.

Dr. Haller said the following precautions can ease the fright of the night:

· An adult should accompany any child under the age of 12, and children should have tags on the insides of their costumes with their name, address and phone number in case they are separated from their group.

· Older kids should always go trick-or-treating with at least two friends. Plan a safe route to know where they will be at all times, and set a time for their return home.

· Because children are overly excited about the adventure of trick-or-treating, remind them of basic safety rules, such as not going into the homes of strangers and not getting into unknown vehicles.

· Avoid masks, which can inhibit vision. Use makeup instead. If masks are used, make sure the eyeholes on masks are big enough for children to see not only in front but peripherally as well.

· Costumes should be bright, reflective and made of flame-retardant material. If children are carrying props such as knives or swords, make sure they are made of flexible plastic that will bend if fallen on. Trick-or-treaters should carry flashlights; walk on sidewalks and cross the street only at corners.

· A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats. Instruct children not to eat any treats until they bring them home to be examined. When in doubt, throw it out.

"The world isn't as safe a place this Halloween," Dr. Haller said. "Trick-or-treating is one of the great adventures of Halloween for kids, but with this excitement kids sometimes forget their usual safety concerns. Parents need to be their children's eyes and ears to protect them while on the streets trick-or-treating."

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Editor's note: To arrange an interview with Dr. Haller, please call Joe Muehlenkamp in Saint Louis University public relations at 314-977-8015.

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