Halloween is just a few days away and the holiday has become one of the most popular in the U.S. with people of all ages taking part in things like trick-or-treating, decorating homes and attending parties. The American Red Cross wants everyone to enjoy the festivities safely, so we offer tips for all ages on how to have a great Halloween and stay safe while doing so.

Costume Safety Trick-or-treaters need to see and be seen.

• Use face makeup instead of masks.

• Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. If possible, have everyone wear light-colored clothing.

• Use flame-resistant costumes and wigs.

• When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric so no one trips and falls.

• Avoid using decorative contact lenses to avoid problems with your eyes.

• If carving pumpkins, don’t use candles to light them. Instead, try battery-operated lights or glow sticks.

Trick or Treat Safety:

• Have your trick or treaters walk only on sidewalks, not in the street. If there are no sidewalks, walk at the edge of the roadway, facing traffic. Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner. Don’t cross between parked cars, and don’t cut across yards or use alleys.

• Drivers — use extra caution as youngsters may forget to look both ways before crossing. As the sun goes down, watch for children in dark clothing.

• If older children are going alone, plan their route. Set a specific time they should return home. Teach them to only visit homes that have a porch light on, to accept treats at the door and never go inside.

• Check all goodies before the kids dig in. Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and remove any choking hazards. Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.

• If you are planning to welcome trick-or-treaters to your home, light the area well and sweep leaves from your sidewalks and steps. Clear obstacles someone could trip over.

Photo Credit: American Red Cross