Some of the greater mishaps on Halloween are not the spooky creatures out but rather, what they’re wearing.

The American Red Cross has issued tips for trick-or-treating asking parents to pay close attention to their child’s costume.

1. Use only flame-resistant costumes.

2. Plan the Trick-or-Treat route – make sure adults know where children are going. A parent or responsible adult should accompany young children as they make their way around the neighborhood.

3. Make sure the Trick-or-Treaters have a flashlight. Add reflective tape to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags. Have everyone wear light-colored clothing to be seen.

4. Visit only the homes that have a porch light on. Accept treats at the door – never go inside.

5. Instead of masks which can cover the eyes and make it hard to see, use face paint instead.

6. Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the edge of the roadway, facing traffic. Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner. Don’t cut across yards or use alleys. Don’t cross between parked cars.

7. Be cautious around strange animals, especially dogs.

8. If you are welcoming Trick-or-Treaters, sweep leaves from your sidewalks and steps.

9. Clear your porch or front yard of obstacles someone could trip over.

10. Restrain your pets.

St. Joseph Police Department Sgt. Greg Gilpin said it’s best to stick to known routes when taking your kids out.

“Know where you want to go, hit the homes that a well lit up,” said Sgt Gilpin.

He said drivers need to be extra cautious.

“Slow down, avoid some of the streets that may be full of trick-or-treaters and stay very vigilant for these kids,” said Sgt. Gilpin. “It’s just a couple of hours, it’s a fun night and we want to keep it safe.”

Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Jake Angle said extra troopers will be monitoring roadways this evening.  He reminds parents to make sure their kids are buckles up and using the proper restraints.

“When you get to your location you need to have high visibility clothing on so we can see the kids and the parents,” said Sgt. Angle

He suggest parents inspect candy before letting their children have it.

“I would strongly encourage parents to carefully inspect children’s candy at the end of the night,” said Angle. “It’s ultimately their safety we’re concerned for.  Go through that candy inspect it thoroughly if there’s any question obviously throw it out.”