Halloween is just around the corner, and children will soon be out in their neighborhoods for trick-or-treating. To help keep kids safe while enjoying the festivities, the American Red Cross offers several tips for parents.

First, it’s important for trick-or-treaters to see and be seen. Parents should use face makeup instead of masks, which can obstruct vision. Giving children a flashlight can help light their way, and adding reflective tape to costumes and treat bags enhances visibility. Light-colored clothing is also recommended if possible.

Parents should choose flame-resistant costumes and avoid long trailing fabric to reduce the risk of accidents. It’s essential for adults to know where the children are going, and young kids should be accompanied by a responsible adult as they go door-to-door. Caution should also be exercised around animals, especially dogs.

Encourage children to walk instead of run and to only visit homes with porch lights on, accepting treats at the door without entering any houses. It’s best for kids to walk on sidewalks and, if there are none, at the edge of the roadway facing traffic. They should look both ways before crossing streets and only cross at corners. Avoid crossing between parked cars, cutting across yards, or using alleys.

Drivers should be particularly cautious, as children may forget to look both ways. After trick-or-treating, a grown-up should check all treats before allowing kids to eat them, ensuring that loose candy is removed, packages are intact, and there are no choking hazards. Discard any unfamiliar brand names.

For those welcoming trick-or-treaters, it’s important to light the area well so young visitors can see. In addition, sweeping leaves from sidewalks and steps and clearing the porch or front yard of obstacles can help prevent trips and falls.