WASHINGTON -- With Halloween approaching, safety officials are trying to throw a useful scare into people about decorative contact lenses.

Federal health officials say such lenses sold without a prescription can cause serious eye injury, even blindness. Plus, the Food and Drug Administration says they're illegal.

The lenses come in various colors and designs, and the agency says they can be bought online, in beauty salons, flea markets and convenience stores. The agency is planning to start cracking down "aggressively" on any such illegal distribution.

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FDA officials said they have received reports of injuries due to eye infection or swelling, allergic reactions and corneal ulcers, among other problems.

The agency urges consumers not to use decorative contact lenses unless they have seen an eye care professional and have obtained proper lens fitting and instructions for using the lenses.

Don't Make Halloween True Nightmare

This Halloween, parents can take some important steps so "fright night" doesn't turn into a real nightmare.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said the biggest hazard for children comes from costumes that aren't flame resistant. The commission recommends synthetic materials such as nylon, not cotton.

Commission chairman Hal Stratton said parents also need to watch for toys with small parts that can easily break off and become a choking hazard. He said, when it comes to toy hazards, choking is the biggest killer of children in the United States.

And don't forget those treats. There could be tricks in them. The safety comission urges parents to carefully examine treats before allowing kids to dig in.