NEW YORK—With Halloween just days away, the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) and the American Red Cross in Greater New York shared important tips to ensure New York City children have a safe and fun Halloween.

“We want children across the city to have fun during Halloween but safety should always come first," said ACS Commissioner Rebecca Jones Gaston. "Making safe costume choices, supervising children during trick or treating, and inspecting treats before eating them are just some of the simple safety steps caregivers can take to ensure a safe and memorable Halloween." 

“Halloween should be a fun and memorable night for children, families and all trick-or-treaters. We encourage New Yorkers to plan ahead and look out for one another, so the night is filled with fun memories. This is why we are proud to work with ACS to remind children and their caregivers to take the time to choose costumes that are easy to see in the dark, plan safe trick-or-treat routes, and stay alert around traffic and pets. By following a few simple safety precautions, we can all focus on enjoying the excitement of Halloween, and, of course, the candy,” said Dario J. Diaz, Regional Disaster Officer, American Red Cross in Greater New York.

A full list of safety tips can be found below:

Pick Safe Costumes and Gear

• Wear light-colored clothing and flame-resistant costumes.
• Add reflective tape to costumes and pack a flashlight. That way kids are easier to see and can see better in the dark.
• Try on costumes ahead of trick-or-treating to ensure children can see properly through masks or headwear.
   

Never let children trick or treat alone.

• A parent or responsible caregiver should accompany young children.
• Plan the trick-or-treat route in advance.
   

Walk on sidewalks and be careful in the street.

• Walk, don’t run.
• Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner and with the green light/walk sign.
• Don’t cross between parked cars.
• Never walk through alleys or cut across yards.
• Only cross the street in designated crosswalks. Adults should use extra caution if driving. Trick-or-treaters are excited and may forget to look both ways before crossing.
   

Accept treats at the door – never go inside.

• Children shouldn’t go inside a stranger’s home. Adults should not invite children into their homes.
• It’s not only vampires and monsters children have to look out for. Children and adults should be cautious around animals and pets.
• Always be aware of your surroundings.
   

Check children’s candy and treats before eating.

• Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and choking hazards.
• Check the ingredient list for your specific allergens, and avoid candy without an ingredient list.
• Discard any items with brand names with which you are not familiar.
   

Leave the pumpkin carving to adults.

• Small children should never carve pumpkins. Instead, let them draw a face with markers.
• Use a flashlight or glowstick to light the pumpkin instead of a candle.