American Red Cross offers 5 spooky tips to keep Halloween safe and fun

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- As Halloween quickly approaches, the American Red Cross is offering five tips to keep you safe while enjoying the holiday.

Below are the tips from the agency:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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
5. 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.

The American Red Cross also urges you to download the free Red Cross First Aid App for instant access to expert first aid advice on your mobile phone.