Editorial: Trick or treating can be a real treat

Razor blades, tampered food and masked assailants, these sounds like a prop list from the most recent horror movie, but it’s not. They are just some of the obstacles our children may face this Halloween.

As most holidays have become commercialized, some would say Halloween has become nothing more than an evening of malicious intent.

It seems as though some people see this day as their own “let’s be cruel to others” day. Reports of animal cruelty and gang violence increase during this time of year. The days of Good old fashion fun — tee—peeing a house or throwing shaving cream at someone — has long since gone. With that, it is our responsibility as adults to make sure our children are safe.

True Halloween is the ultimate in ironies. All year parents tell their children to never take candy from strangers then on October 31 we send them out begging for it.

Trick or treating is a time honored tradition that won’t end anytime soon, so the Horizon wants to make sure all the little ghouls, goblins, prince and princess remain safe and have a good time.

The following are tips from the New York Police Department. Happy Halloween:

• Go trick or treating with friends or family Never go into a building alone.

• Let your parent or guardian look at your candy before eating it.

• Go trick or treating in your neighborhood. Stay as close to home as possible.

• If your mask blocks your vision, take it off whenever crossing the street.

• If you go out at night, wear bright colored clothing or use a flashlight.

• Respect other people’s property.