“On Halloween the thing you must do is pretend that nothing can frighten you, an’ if somethin’ scares you and you want to run, jus’ let on like it’s Halloween fun.”

That’s not bad advice from a 19th century postcard but we tend to think there’s more than one thing you need to do this Halloween to make sure it’s not only fun, but safe.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers this advice to help keep your little ghost, goblin, superhero or princess safe this Halloween.

*         Don’t allow children to eat any treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering.

*         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 is usually 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.

*         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.

*         Young children should always be accompanied by an adult or an older, responsible child. All children should walk, not run from house to house and use the sidewalk if available, rather than walk in the street.

*         Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome.

*         Children should not enter homes or apartments unless they are accompanied by an adult.

For more information on Halloween safety, call the U.S . Consumer Product Safety Commission’s toll-free hotline on (800) 638-2772.

And don’t forget that the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding Trick or Treat on Commerce.

The event offers a fun, safe alternative for parents who don’t want their children going door-to-door trick or treating.

The event will start at 5:30 p.m. and will end with a performance from the Fort Dale Academy dance team in front of the Butler County Courthouse as 7 p.m.

We hope to see you there.