Have a safe Halloween: Tips for costumes, trick-or-treating, parties

Halloween is one of the most popular holidays for people for all ages, like trick-or-treating, festive decorations, and lively parties. However, safety concerns are particularly important during this time.

According to American Red Cross, children are twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day of the year.

The number of alcohol-related traffic incidents also increase around Halloween. Many deaths on Oct. 31 can be linked to drivers who are impaired.

For a fun and safe celebration, here are some essential tips for costumes, trick-or-treating, and adult safety:

Costume

• Use face makeup instead of masks.
• Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. If possible, wear light-colored clothing.
• Use flame-resistant costumes and wigs.
• When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric so no one trips and falls.
• Avoid using decorative contact lenses to avoid problems with your eyes.
• If carving pumpkins, don't use candles to light them. Instead, try battery-operated lights or glow sticks.

Trick-or-treat

• Have your trick or treaters walk only on sidewalks
• Drivers - use extra caution as people may forget to look both ways before crossing. Also, watch out for children in dark clothing.
• Use a flashlight
• A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children door-to-door.
• If older children are going alone, plan their route. Set a specific time they should return home. Teach them to only visit homes that have a porch light on, to accept treats at the door and never go inside.
• Be cautious around animals, especially dogs.
• Walk, don't run.
• Check all goodies before the kids dig in. Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and remove any choking hazards. Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.
• If you are planning to welcome trick-or-treaters to your home, light the area well. Clear obstacles someone could trip over.

Adult Halloween Safety

• If you are hosting a party, collect car keys from guests who are drinking. Provide non-alcoholic options. Have a plan to make sure guests get home safely -- ride-sharing, taxis or, if you haven't been drinking, drive guests home yourself.
• If you plan to drink, choose a designated driver or plan how you will get home without getting behind the wheel.