NEW YORK, NY – Ahead of Halloween, the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) and the American Red Cross in Greater New York today shared important tips to help keep our littlest trick-or-treaters in New York City safe.

“As part of our work to keep children safe and families supported, ACS is sharing important tips that families should keep in mind when trick-or-treating. From choosing the right costume, to planning a trick-or-treat route in advance, packing a flashlight and more, there are lots of ways to ensure our littlest New Yorkers stay safe this Halloween. ACS is proud to partner with the American Red Cross once again on this important initiative,” said Commissioner Jess Dannhauser.

“Halloween is just days away and as one of the most popular holidays, our neighborhoods will soon be filled with groups of little superheroes, cartoon and television characters out for trick or treat fun. The American Red Cross is proud to partner with NYC Administration for Children’s Services to help keep the kids safe while they enjoy the festivities,” said Mary J. Barneby, CEO, American Red Cross in Greater New York.

Whether you are trick-or-treating door-to-door, or simply driving through the neighborhood, New Yorkers should follow these Halloween Safety Tips:

Make sure trick-or-treaters can see and be seen.

• Give children a flashlight to light their way.
• Wear light-colored clothing and add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags so kids are easier to see in the dark.
• Use flame-resistant costumes.
  
  

Children should never trick or treat alone.

• A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children door-to-door in neighborhoods.
• Plan the trick-or-treat route in advance.
  
  

Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street.

• Walk, don’t run.
• Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner.
• 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.

• It’s not only vampires and monsters children have to look out for. Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.
• Make sure a grown-up checks the goodies before eating.
• Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and choking hazards.
• Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.
  
  

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.