Halloween Safety Tips
News Release: October 10, 2007
Contact: Janice Osborne, Director-Communications and Marketing; American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley (610) 865-4400, ext. 262; pager (610) 508-4378

With princesses, pirates, and super heroes descending on neighborhoods soon, the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley offers parents some safety tips to help prepare their children for a safe and happy Halloween.

Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover the eyes.

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

Map out the route you plan to take and share the information with family or friends. If possible, bring an adult along with you to share the fun!

Always carry a flashlight to brighten your path.

Stay on the sidewalks and never walk in the street.

Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars.

Never hide behind or cross the street between parked cars.

Go to the corner to cross the street.

Don’t go near open fires and candles. Costumes can be extremely flammable.

Only visit homesthat have well-lit hallways or the porch light turned on.

Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger's home.

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.

For more tips on how to stay safe during Halloween and other occasions, contact the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley at (610) 865-4400 or log onto www.redcrosslv.org for more information.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves more than 680,000 residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross provided health and safety education training; Lifeline, a personal response service for seniors; and emergency relief to more than 23,000 Greater Lehigh Valley residents. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.