Halloween is a popular holiday in this country and many children will be out dressed up as their favorite superheroes, cartoon and television characters. The American Red Cross of the Indiana Region has tips that parents can follow to keep their kids safe during the festivities.

Trick-or-treaters need to see and be seen. Use face makeup instead of masks which could make seeing difficult. Give trick-or-treaters a flashlight and glow sticks to light their way and help make the route easier for them to follow and more visible to any vehicles on the roads. Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. If possible, have everyone wear light-colored clothing. Below are more tips to consider to keep you and your family safe this Halloween:

• Use flame-resistant costumes.
• Make sure adults know where the kids are going. A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children door-to-door.
• Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.
• Walk, don’t run.
• Only visit homes that have a porch light on. Accept treats at the door and never go inside.
• Walk only on sidewalks, not on the street. Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner. Don’t cross between parked cars, and don’t cut across yards or use alleys.
• Drivers – use extra caution as youngsters may forget to look both ways before crossing.
• A grown-up should check all goodies before eating. Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and remove any choking hazards. Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.
   

If you are planning to welcome trick-or-treaters to your home, follow these safety steps:

•  Light the area well so young visitors can see.
• Sweep leaves from your sidewalks and steps. Clear your porch or front yard of obstacles someone could trip over.
  
  

About the American Red Cross Indiana Region:
The American Red Cross of Indiana Region serves 6.9 million people in 104 counties in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio through its six chapters: Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, and Greater Indianapolis (Regional Headquarters). The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit us at Redcross.org/Indiana or follow us on Facebook, Twitter @INRedCross and Instagram @indianaredcross.