A Parent's Guide to Halloween Safety: Keeping Trick-or-Treating Fun and Secure

Halloween is a night of pure magic for children, filled with costumes, candy, and neighborhood adventure.

 

But behind the excitement lurks a sobering reality: pedestrian fatalities for children can be significantly higher on Halloween than any other night of the year.

 

The hours between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. are peak times for trick-or-treating, and also the most dangerous as visibility decreases.

 

That doesn't mean the fun has to stop, but it does mean that prioritizing Halloween safety is non-negotiable for every family.

 

Smart Costumes Make a Difference

 

A great costume is key to Halloween, but it shouldn't come at the cost of safety.

 

Avoid masks that can obstruct vision.

 

Face paint and non-toxic makeup are fantastic alternatives that let kids see clearly.

 

Choose costumes in light, bright colors when possible and add reflective tape to outfits and candy bags to make children more visible to drivers.

 

It’s also crucial to ensure costumes fit properly to prevent trips and falls on uneven sidewalks or porch steps.

 

Hitting the Streets Safely

 

When it’s time to head out, basic pedestrian rules are more important than ever.

 

Always use sidewalks when they are available; if not, walk facing traffic as far to the side as possible.

 

Teach your children to cross at corners or designated crosswalks and to make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.

 

Carrying flashlights or glow sticks is another essential tip to help kids both see where they are going and be seen by motorists.

 

For children under 12, adult supervision is a must.

 

If you have older kids who are mature enough to go with friends, map out a familiar, well-lit route and set a firm curfew.

 

A Crucial Message for Drivers

 

Drivers have a huge responsibility on Halloween night.

 

Slow down, especially in residential neighborhoods where excited children might dart into the street unexpectedly.

 

Eliminate all distractions, like your phone, and be extra cautious when entering or exiting driveways and alleys.

 

Turning your headlights on earlier than usual can help you spot trick-or-treaters from a greater distance.

 

After the Haul

 

Once home, the final safety check begins.

 

Inspect all treats before anyone takes a bite.

 

Throw away any candy with torn or opened wrappers, as well as any homemade items from people you don't know personally.

 

This simple step ensures the night ends as sweetly as it began.