In just two days, another Halloween will be here, and children will be eager to get out into their neighborhoods and other festivities around town in their costumes to collect candy.

Children are usually pretty eager to get started, but make sure to educate them on several safety measures.

To plan for a safe day, follow these tips from the American Red Cross:

 

Costumes

• Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags.

• Have everyone wear light-colored clothing to be seen.

• Use flame-resistant costumes.

• Use face makeup instead of masks, which can cover your eyes and make it hard to see.

 

Trick-or-treating

• Visit only the homes that have a porch light on. Accept treats at the door — never go inside.

• Make sure trick-or-treaters have a flashlight to see where they are going and can be seen by drivers.

• 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.

• Don’t cut across yards or use alleys. Don’t cross between parked cars.

• Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.

 

Welcoming trick-or-treaters

• Make sure the outdoor lights are on.

• Sweep leaves from the sidewalks and steps.

• Clear the porch or front yard of any obstacles a child could trip over.

• Restrain pets.

 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration also gives the following tips for food safety:

• Don’t snack from goody bags while out trick-or-treating. Wait until after returning home, and all of the candy can be inspected.

• Tell children not to accept anything that is not commercially wrapped. Inspect commercially wrapped treats for signs of tampering, such as unusual appearance or discoloration, pinholes or tears.

• Do not allow children to eat any home-baked goods. Throw away anything that looks suspicious.

• Remove choking hazards for young children such as gum, peanuts, hard candy or small toys.