Today's the day and tonight's the night in which spooks and goblins scare and frighten. To be sure it's safe when trick-or-treaters roam, here's our Halloween checklist for kids and homes. Sidewalks, stairs and porches should be clear and well-lighted. Remove hoses, ladders, planters and anything little ones can trip over. Use battery-powered jack-o-lanterns and chemical light sticks for decorations (instead of candles), and consider healthful treat alternatives like boxes of raisins, cereal or trail mix. For kids' costumes, bright colors with reflective tape are most visible. Be sure all materials are flame-resistant and fit properly -- not too long (to prevent tripping) or too big and loose (to avoid catching on things). When it's time to leave, review safety instructions. Give each child a flashlight and put identification and quarters for phone calls in their pockets. Then as night falls, be sure Fido is secure (so as not to bite) and prepare yourself for trick-or-treater fright.

And that's the On The House tip for today.