Halloween is here, the time of year when children take to the streets for some fun.
Police say you can do your part as parents by staying with your kids at all times and teenagers should go trick or treating in groups.
You should remove a mask when crossing the street and carry a flashlight and cellphone with you in case of emergencies.
Police also say keep the trick or treating outside the home.
"We ask that children never go in a stranger’s home. If you knock to get candy stay in your group and never go in a home. And on the other token, homeowners should never invite strangers into your home. You can meet them on your front porch or outside, give them the candy," said West Palm Beach officer Seth Buxton.
The American Red Cross has some additional tips to stay safe while enjoying the festivities.
"The Red Cross wants Halloween to be a fun night for everyone," said James Hagen, Individual & Community Preparedness Manager for the Red Cross South Florida Region. "Safety should be a priority for parents as they get their children ready for Halloween."
SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK-or-TREATERS
1. Use only flame-resistant costumes.
2. Plan the trick-or-treat route - make sure adults know where children are going.
3. Have a parent or responsible adult accompany young children as they make their way around the neighborhood.
4. Make sure trick-or-treaters can see and be seen. Give them a flashlight to light their way. Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. Have everyone wear light-colored clothing to help be seen.
5. Instead of masks which can cover the eyes and make it hard to see, use face paint instead.
6. Be cautious around animals.
7. Only visit homes that have a porch light on. Accept treats at the door - never go inside.
8. 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.
9. Make sure a grown-up checks the goodies before eating. Remove loose candy, open packages and choking hazards. Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.
10. Drivers - use extra caution. The youngsters are excited and may forget to look both ways before crossing.
TIPS FOR WELCOMING CHILDREN ON HALLOWEEN
People, who are planning on welcoming trick-or-treaters to their home, should follow these safety steps:
· Sweep leaves from sidewalks and steps.
· Clear the porch or front yard of obstacles someone could trip over.
· Restrain pets.
· Light the area well so the young visitors can see where they are going.
People can download the free Red Cross First Aid App for instant access to expert advice for everyday emergencies. They can use the Red Cross Emergency App for weather alerts and to let others know you are safe if severe weather occurs. The apps are available in app stores or by going to redcross.org/apps.
