Halloween is just around the corner, the time of year when children take to the streets for some Halloween fun. The American Red Cross has some safety tips to help stay safe this Halloween while enjoying the festivities.
“The Red Cross wants Halloween to be a fun night for everyone night for everyone,” said Lyn Hruska, Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross Central and Southern Illinois Region. “A few simple tips can help make the night a fun and safe time for children and parents.”
SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK-or-TREATERS
· Use only flame-resistant costumes.
· Plan the trick-or-treat route – make sure adults know where children are going.
· Have a parent or responsible adult accompany young children as they make their way around the neighborhood.
· Make sure trick-or-treaters can see and be seen. Give them a flashlight to light their way. Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. Have everyone wear light-colored clothing to help be seen.
· Use face paint instead of masks, which can cover the eyes and make it difficult to see.
· Be cautious around animals.
· Only visit homes that have a porch light on. Accept treats at the door – never go inside.
· Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the edge of the roadway, facing traffic. Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner. Don’t cut across yards or use alleys. Don’t cross between parked cars.
· Make sure a grown-up checks the goodies before eating. Remove loose candy, open packages and choking hazards. Discard any items with unfamiliar brand names.
· Drivers – use extra caution. The youngsters are excited and may forget to look both ways before crossing.
TIPS FOR WELCOMING CHILDREN ON HALLOWEEN
People, who are planning on welcoming trick-or-treaters to their home, should follow these safety steps:
· Sweep leaves from sidewalks and steps.
· Clear the porch or front yard of obstacles that could cause someone to trip.
· Restrain pets.
· Light the area well so the young visitors can see where they are going.
