Halloween is a very big holiday in this part of the country. Maybe that is because Halloween is a tune-up for Mardi Gras with people dressing up in crazy costumes, and another reason to have a party.

Whatever the reason for its popularity, Halloween poses some safety problems, especially this year when it falls on a Saturday night. This means that not only will there be young goblins and ghosts trick-or-treating, but the roads will be filled with adults enjoying a night out.

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission states that Halloween poses risks for both the pedestrian and the motorist. In fact, there are more motorist and pedestrian accidents in October between the hours of 6 p.m. and midnight than at any other time of the year. In order to keep the youngsters and adults safe tomorrow night, the LHSC suggests: If you are going to a party with a group, designate a driver who will stay sober and be able to drive everybody home. If you don’t have a designated driver and imbibed too much, call a taxi or get a ride home with a sober friend.

There will be lots of children in residential areas seeking goodies as they trick or treat, so be careful when backing out or entering driveways; drive through residential areas slowly and watch for kids darting out from between parked cars or from behind bushes. Another thing parents should remember is to remind their young goblins not to accept homemade treats, and only accept candy and treats that have been bought at a store. Remember, there are still real monsters and demons in this world, and parents should be on the alert.

Finally, on a non-Halloween matter, don’t forget to turn your clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed Saturday night. Daylight savings time ends Sunday.

At least you will get an extra hour to sleep off the merriment from the night before.

And when you do wake up, the St. Tammany Fire Services reminds you that it would be a good time to change the batteries in all the smoke detectors in your house.

Have a fun and safe Halloween.