Halloween is just around the corner. Soon masses of little superheroes, goblins, ghosts and cartoon and television characters will be out in their neighborhoods for trick or treat fun. The American Red Cross has tips parents can follow to help keep the kids safe while enjoying the festivities.   

“Halloween is fast becoming one of the most popular holidays in this country, and people should expect more visitors in search of treats,” said Jennifer Graham, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania. “Whether you’re handing out goodies or going door-to-door, a few simple considerations can help ensure your family and those around you are safe and sound.”  

Here are the top tips for parents to keep in mind while getting their kids ready for Halloween this year: 

• Make sure trick-or-treaters can see and be seen. Give kids a flashlight to light their way and consider adding reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags.  
• Plan the trick-or-treat route in advance and make sure adults know where their children are going. A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children door-to-door.  
• Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street. Avoid running. Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner. Don’t cross between parked cars. 
• Be considerate of other people. Only visit homes that have a porch light on, and never go inside. 
• Be cautious around animals. It’s not only vampires and monsters people have to look out for. Be alert around unknown animals, especially dogs. 
• Keep your hands clean. Bring hand sanitizer with you while trick-or-treating and use it after touching objects or other people. Wash your hands when you get home. 
• 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. 

For those planning to welcome trick-or-treaters to their doors, follow these safety steps:  

• Provide proper lighting and sweep your sidewalks and steps. Having good lighting and a clear path helps visitors see where they are walking and avoid getting hurt. 
• Do not hand out candy if anyone in the household is ill or isolating. This helps keep everyone as healthy as possible. 
• Wash your hands before handing out candy and between trick-or-treaters. 

Download the free Red Cross First Aid app for instant access to expert advice in case your ghost, goblin or superhero has a mishap. Use the Emergency app for weather alerts and to let others know you are safe if severe weather occurs. Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.