With witches, goblins, and super-heroes descending on neighborhoods across America, the American Red Cross offers parents some safety tips to help prepare their 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.

• Map out the route that you plan to roam, so adults are assured you will find your way home!

• From the bravest of superheroes to the noblest of knights, please remember to bring your flashlights!

• If you visit a house where a stranger resides, accept treats at the door and, please, don't go inside.

• When you get ready to put on your disguise, use face paint instead of masks, which will cover your eyes.

• Always remember, before you embark, to wear light colored clothing to be seen in the dark! (And remember to use reflective tape, even on bikes) skateboards and brooms!)

• Whether you walk, slither or sneak, do it on the sidewalks and not in the street.

• When going for treats, look both ways before crossing the streets. (And cross from the corner, too!)

• Wigs, capes and costumes are flammable attire, so avoid open flames to prevent a fire!

• Use a glow stick instead of a candle so your jack-o-lantern isn't a safety gamble!

• You may fly on a broom or a space ship from Mars, but please be on the lookout for drivers in cars! (And don1t hide between parked vehicles).

• Monsters and zombies should stay off the lawn, and only visit homes with their porch lights turned on!

• You may be dressed as a werewolf, a cat or a frog, but be cautious around strange animals, especially dogs.

• Have a grown-up inspect your candy when you're done trick-or-treating to remove open packages and choking hazards before eating.

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