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Show Guarding against the real ghouls of Halloween submitted by the P. C. Fire Department Last week we discussed how to keep your home and your children safe from fire and automobiles this Hallowe'en. This week the subject is newer and more disturbing keep-' ing little ones safe from sick individuals who would poison and adulterate candy, or prey upon youthful ghouls and goblins. Many areas have eliminated trick-or-treating in favor of sponsored spon-sored parties. If trick-or-treating is practised in your area, here are ways, to make the experience as safe for the children as it is exciting. The first rule is obvious: never let a group of children trick-or-treat alone. Always have at least one adult accompany the group. This alone is enough to protect the children against both bullies their own age and your average mugger. A thornier problem is adulterated candy. You can guard against such incidents with few simple rules. The first: Trick-or-treat only at homes of people you know. Children should not eat any candy or treats they receive until they return home. Nothing should be eaten on the spot even if the candy is commercially wrapped. ; On your child's return home, inspect all the candy and fruit. Slice fruit open and look for odors or other signs that the fruit has been I adulterated. - Unwrap or cut the candy in half. If you discover anything suspicious turn it over to the police department. Does this sound like a lot of trouble? It is. But it's up to you to decide whether the thrill of a traditional Hallowe'en is worth the hassle. If you think it is, your small investment of time and trouble will make the holiday safer and happier for all concerned. |