Parents planning to help their young ones with Halloween fancy dress this year may be wondering whether the child is better off dressed as a spooky ghost, witch or vampire.
However, there are other considerations that need taking into account when preparing youngsters for an evening of trick or treating, as US publication the Creston News Advertiser has pointed out.
It said parents should always make sure children are comfortable and warm in their outfit, whether they choose to wear mad scientist fancy dress or the costume of another scary character.
"If you're going trick or treating, make sure your child's costume is warm enough. Add layers underneath if it is not," the news provider commented.
Responsible parents should also check their kids can move freely in their costume and make sure there are no loose accessories that could be a safety hazard.
A recent survey from American discount store Savers revealed that films such as Alice in Wonderland, Avatar and Toy Story 3 have inspired costume ideas among fancy dress fans this year.