Wilmington, DE, October 30, 2006 – 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-or-treaters,” said Holly Newton, Red Cross health and safety expert. “Most Halloween injuries are preventable, if parents and children take some simple precautions,” added Newton.

The following “lucky 13" safety tips for parents to share with their trick-or-treaters to prevent injuries at Halloween.

Red Cross Halloween Safety Tips:

• Plan your route and share it with your family. If possible, have an adult go with you.
• Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible. (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards and brooms, too!)
• Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover your eyes.
• Cross the street only at corners.
• Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks and low-lying 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 your 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 your treats at the door and never go into a stranger's home.
• Be cautious of strangers and animals.
• Have a grown-up inspect your 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.