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Tips for a happy—and safe—Halloween

With witches, goblins and super-heroes descending on neighborhoods across Arizona, the American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter offers parents some safety tips to help prepare children for a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treat holiday.  Halloween should be filled with surprise and enjoyment, and following some common sense practices can keep events safer and more fun.

• Walk, slither and sneak on sidewalks, not in the street.

• Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks and low-flying brooms.

• Cross the street only at corners.

• Don’t hide or cross the street between parked cars.

• Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible.  (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards and brooms, too!)

• Plan your route and share it with your family.  If possible, have an adult go with you.

• Carry a flashlight to light your way.

• Keep away from open fires and candles.  (Costumes can be extremely flammable.)

• Visit homes that have the porch light on.

• Accept your treats at the door, and never go into a stranger’s house.

• Use face paint rather than masks that will cover your eyes.

• Be cautious of animals and strangers.

• 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.

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