The tree leaves are changing colors, crisp cool air is filling the evenings, and the spookiest night of the year is right around the corner. As little superheroes, cartoon characters, and ghosts prepare to fill neighborhood streets for trick-or-treat fun, the American Red Cross is sharing simple steps to help families stay safe while enjoying all the thrills of Halloween night.
“Whether you’re out trick-or-treating or welcoming visitors at your door, a few safety precautions can make the evening both fun and worry-free,” said Isabel Anderson, Red Cross Cascades Region Spokesperson. “These tips help ensure everyone gets home safely — with plenty of treats and smiles to show for it.”
Five Spooky Smart Red Cross Tips for a Safe Halloween
- Trick-or-treaters need to see and be seen.
- Try using face makeup instead of a mask. Masks can block little one’s view and make it difficult to see.
- Give trick-or-treaters a flashlight to light their way.
- Use flame-resistant costumes.
- Trick-or-treat routes and Halloween parties often include candles, fire pits, and decorative lighting, which can easily ignite long or flowing costumes. Kids’ costumes often have loose sleeves, capes, or tulle skirts, which are more likely to catch fire — so flame resistance adds vital protection.
- 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.
- Drivers – use extra caution. The youngsters may forget to look both ways before crossing.
- If you’re handing out treats, turn your porch light on and make sure there’s a clear path to your porch.
- Turn on outdoor lights so trick-or-treaters can avoid any obstacles
- A grown-up should check 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.
- Before anyone enjoys their candy haul, adults should inspect all treats and remove any loose candy, open packages, or potential choking hazards. Discard any unfamiliar or unbranded items.
Accidents can happen, even on a fun night out. Download the free Red Cross First Aid App for instant access to expert first aid advice — available in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
With a few simple precautions, families can enjoy a safe and memorable Halloween night filled with laughter, community, and plenty of sweet rewards.
Click here to read more Red Cross Halloween safety tips.
How is the American Red Cross celebrating Halloween this year? Check out some spooky old footage found that tells you why the Red Cross really wants your blood?
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.