Inuvik (Oct 27/06) - On the eve of Halloween, 64 Kugmallit Road will transform from a simple college rental unit into a house of fright.

To celebrate the night of costumes and candy, some students in town are bringing back the age-old tradition of the haunted house.

Patrick Joe prepares for his role as a crazy machete wielding killer at next week's haunted house hosted by Aurora College. Marjorie Baetz is already in the coffin sizing it up for future use. The pair are involved with the student council, which is organizing the event with the fire department. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Aurora College students are working devilishly hard to prepare for the haunted house's Monday Oct. 30 opening.

Don't worry about scaring the little ones too badly, the house will have different times of operation catering to separate age groups.

Patrick Joe is one of the students tackling the task of making a scary experience for the public.

He said student council chose to hold the event the night before Halloween to ensure a good turn out.

A group of core council members met on Monday night to plan their scare.

While some people assembled cardboard coffins and straightened out strings of lights, Janelle Frost sat in front of a large list of items that were needed.

She said the idea of having a haunted house came from Marjorie Baetz.

"The fire department held a few good ones a few years back at the old arena," said Frost.

The fire department is once again being called upon to assist the council with its house.

Rick Lindsay was at the meeting and went through possible ideas for the frightening night.

"We could put some hanging walls in the middle," suggested Lindsay.

He also brought other ideas from past houses that would add to the overall affect.

"The element of surprise is important," said Lindsay.

Planning for the house began a few weeks ago. Since then, supplies have been bought and some have been donated.

"The costumes came from Next to New," said Baetz.

Following the initial showing for the younger ones aged 12 and under, a quick transformation will give the older audience a thrill.

"Scare factor is going to be a big difference between the two age groups," said Frost.

Proceeds from the house will go towards funding the Aurora College student council.