American Red Cross offers Halloween safety tips

TINTON FALLS - As ghosts, pirates and princesses prepare to descend on neighborhoods across America on Halloween night, the American Red Cross offers parents some safety tips to help prepare their children for a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treat holiday.

"By following a few simple safety tips, parents can make this Halloween a safe and fun time for their little trick-ortreaters," said Jaime Poggioli, director of health & safety for the American Red Cross. "Most Halloween injuries are preventable, if parents and children take some simple precautions."

The following "lucky 13" are safety tips for parents to share with their trickor treaters to prevent injuries at Halloween.

• Plan their route and share it with family. If possible, have an adult accompany them.

• Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so they are more visible.

• Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover their eyes.

• Have them cross the street only at corners.

• They should look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks and low-flying brooms.

• Don't hide or cross the street between parked cars.

• Walk, slither and sneak on sidewalks; not in the street.

• Carry a flashlight to light the way.

• Visit homes that have the porch light on.

• Keep away from open fires and candles. (Keep in mind that costumes can be extremely flammable.)

• Accept treats at the door and never go into a stranger's home.

• Be cautious of strangers and animals.

• Have a grown-up inspect treats before eating. And don't eat candy if the package is already opened. Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children.