Halloween is just days away, one of the most popular holidays in this country.

Little witches, ghosts, pirates, and superheroes will soon take to the streets for trick or treat fun.

The American Red Cross Southern Gulf Chapter has tips to help everyone stay safe while enjoying the festivities.

“Halloween is a popular holiday and enjoyable for the whole family but it’s important to stay safe while having fun,” said Jill Palmer, executive director for the Southern Gulf Chapter. “The Red Cross provides great tips to keep in mind when taking children out to Trick or Treat.”

• Make sure trick-or-treaters can see and be seen.
  • Use face makeup instead of masks. Masks can make it hard to see.Give kids a flashlight to light their way.Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags.Have everyone wear light-colored clothing.
• Use flame-resistant costumes.
• Plan the trick-or-treat route in advance – make sure adults know where their children are going. A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children door-to-door in neighborhoods.
• It’s not only vampires and monsters people have to look out for. Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.
• Walk, don’t run.
• Only visit homes that have a porch light on. Accept treats at the door – never go inside.
• 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.Use extra caution if driving. The youngsters are excited and may forget to look both ways before crossing.
• Make sure a grown-up checks 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.

And finally, for those planning to welcome trick-or-treaters to their homes, follow these safety steps:

• Light the area well so young visitors can see.
• Sweep leaves from your sidewalks and steps. Clear your porch or front yard of obstacles someone could trip over.

Download the free Red Cross First Aid App for instant access to expert advice in case your ghost, goblin or super hero has a mishap. Use the Emergency App for weather alerts and to let others know you are safe if severe weather occurs. Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families.

The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/southflorida or visit us on Facebook or Twitter at @SFLRedCross.