“Halloween is one of the most popular days in the U.S. with people of all ages taking part in trick-or-treating, decorating homes, attending parties and other festivities. But while Halloween is filled with fun and excitement, there is one statistic that casts a shadow over the festivities:

Children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year.

It’s a sobering reality, and one the American Red Cross hopes to help change. Here are a few answers to commonly asked questions to help everyone have a fun and safe Halloween.

Trick-or-treaters need to be easily visible and able to see clearly. Try these tips to help keep them safe:

• Use face makeup instead of masks whenever possible.
• Choose light-colored clothing if you can.
• Add reflective tape to costumes and treat bags .
• Select flame-resistant costumes and wigs.
• Walk on sidewalks whenever possible.
• If there are no sidewalks, walk on the edge of the road facing traffic.
• Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at corners or crosswalks.
• Never cross between parked cars, cut across yards, or use alleys.’

American Red Cross (Q&A: How to Have a Fun and Safe Halloween)