a safe and happy Hallowe'en.

In a statement released by the Police Community and Media Relations Department this week, P.c. Gary Venning said: "We are appealing to the public to exercise caution and common sense over Hallowe'en night in the hope of reducing the incidents which have marred previous years.'' He warned that extra Police patrols will be covering the Island on Monday to deal with any incidents which might occur.

Meanwhile, Constable Venning issued the following guidelines for children, parents and householders: Young children should be accompanied by an adult at all times when trick or treating.

Use sidewalks wherever possible.

When walking on the roads, each person in a group should be clearly visible to traffic. Wear light coloured clothing, or a reflective jacket or band, and carry a flashlight.

Parents must emphasise to their children that the purpose of Hallowe'en is to have fun, and not cause trouble.

Trick or treaters of whatever age should be careful not to cause injury or damage.

Householders should turn on all exterior lights, and keep the outside of their property well illuminated.

To which we would add our own recommendations: Children's costumes should be made of non-flammable material, and sized to fit correctly. Hemlines should be short enough to avoid tripping, and shoes should also fit without causing tripping. Masks, hoods and facial coverings should be well ventilated and provide clear vision. They should also fit in such a way that clear vision is maintained even when the head is turned.

Children should not carry any form of lantern which is illuminated by a candle or liquid fuel.

Pedestrians should walk facing the oncoming traffic and keep to the side of the road. Groups should walk single file. Take special care on blind corners, and do not jump out at or otherwise frighten motorists.

Keep children away from naked flames in Hallowe'en pumpkins. Keep matches and lighters out of reach of small children.

Tell children they must bring all Hallowe'en treats home for inspection by a responsible adult before being allowed to eat it.

Encourage children to trick or treat in their own neighbourhoods and discourage them from going into unknown areas or homes unless they are accompanied by a responsible adult. To further protect small children, who may become separated from others in a group, teach them to memorise their address and telephone number.

Household pets are often frightened by costumed strangers and may become nervous or react badly. Keep cats indoors, if possible. Tie up dogs out of the path of trick or treaters, or else keep them under control indoors.

If there are pitfalls on your property (e.g. broken steps, slippery pathways, low branches, trenches or potholes) mark them off in some way, or place a warning illumination near them.

If you are concerned about vandalism, take sensible precautions: e.g. close the shutters, lock all vehicles in the garage, or away from public view, remove flower pots, hanging baskets and small garden ornaments, and stow lawn furniture.

Be cautious about admitting trick or treaters to your home. If you don't know who's on your doorstep, greet them outside your doors, or remain indoors and leave a selection of "treats'' by the front door.

If you live alone and are nervous, invite a friend or friends over to spend the evening with you.

Should you have to call the Police, remain calm and give the required information in a clear, concise manner.

MAKE IT SAFE...AND FUN -- Amanda Martins (left) and Stephanie Smith are seen all decked out in their costumes just before Hallowe'en last year. And for all parents of little children like Amanda and Stephanie the Bermuda Police advise, among other things, that kids should be accompanied by an adult at all times when trick or treating and also parents must emphasise to their children that the purpose of Hallowe'en is to have fun, and not cause trouble.