Let fun, safety go hand in hand for Halloween

Halloween is a time for ghosts and goblins, tricks and treats. It is favored by children everywhere and has the power to bring out the kid in almost anyone.

Local churches and civic organizations have a bevy of activities scheduled through the weekend. And Monday night is the Valley's most popular event - Halloween Hollow.

Held each year at Raven Hall on the grounds of the Alaska State Fair, the event provides a warm, safe and well-lit alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating. It has the additional attraction of being a bridge event to another holiday - Christmas. Halloween Hollow brings families together for an evening of fun, with plenty of tricks, treats and Halloween-themed games to amuse children.

The popular event is a benefit for the Special Santa Program, which distributes toys to underprivileged Valley children at Christmas. Participating trick-or-treaters are admitted for $5 or one new unwrapped toy. Admission for adults is $1. All of the proceeds stay in the Valley for the benefit of Valley children and their families, so it's a nice way to make a contribution while also having a good time.

Doors open at Raven Hall at 4 p.m. Monday, and the event runs until 8.

Central Mat-Su Fire Department is also offering family Halloween fun. The fire training facility at Station 62, Mile 7 Knik-Goose Bay Road, has been transformed into a free haunted house this weekend. It is open tonight from 6-9.

Monday night, five stations will be open to trick-or-treaters from 5:30-9. Those stations are:

€ Station 52 at Bogard Road and Engstrom Road;

€ Station 61 at Lucille Street and Swanson Avenue;

€ Station 62 at Mile 7 Knik-Goose Bay Road;

€ Station 65 at Seward Meridian Parkway and Palmer-Wasilla Highway;

€ Station 66 at Mile 5 Fairview Loop.

Those who choose the more traditional neighborhood door-to-door trick-or-treating should remember the following safety tips, also supplied by Central Mat-Su Fire Department:

€ Plan costumes that are bright and reflective;

€ Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes or treat bags for greater visibility;

€ Purchase flame-resistant costumes, wigs and accessories;

€ Make sure shoes fit and costumes are not too long to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flames;

€ Use battery-powered lights or glow sticks in pumpkins and decorations;

€ Obtain flashlights and fresh batteries for all children and their chaperones;

€ Teach children their phone numbers and 911 if they become lost;

€ Teach kids basic everyday safety, such as not getting into cars with strangers, not getting into cars with friends without parents' OK, looking both ways before crossing the street, and not to be afraid to yell for help.

A little prevention and awareness goes a long way. Palmer Police Lt. Tom Remaley reminded parents to do a thorough inspection of all goodies. Loose, open or unwrapped treats, especially, should be handled with caution.

The best advice of all for parents concerned about the safety of their children, he said, is for parents to accompany them on their rounds. &#8220Go out and enjoy the evening with them,” he said. &#8220Keep them safe and warm.”