Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year, and a little preparation can help make it safer for everyone. Before children head out to collect treats and haunt the neighborhood streets, make sure they’re ready for a night of fun with these simple safety tips.
Help your children choose safe costumes
- Look for costumes, accessories, and wigs labeled flame-resistant.
- Have them wear bright-colored costumes when possible, or add reflective tape to costumes and treat bags to help improve visibility after dark.
- Make sure their costumes fit properly. Costumes that are too long can increase the risk of trips and falls.
- Consider the weather when planning costumes. Layers can help keep children warm on chilly evenings without interfering too much with their looks.
- Help them choose comfortable, well-fitting shoes that can handle plenty of walking.
- If a costume includes props like swords, wands, or staffs, make sure they’re lightweight and flexible rather than sharp or rigid.
Plan ahead before trick-or-treating
- Young children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult.
- If older children plan to trick-or-treat without an adult, review their route ahead of time and establish a curfew. Discuss a plan for staying in touch throughout the evening, including check-in times and what to do if plans change.
- Encourage children to stay with their group, remain in familiar neighborhoods, and only visit homes with porch lights turned on.
Help children stay visible and aware
- Equip them with flashlights, glow sticks, or wearable LED lights to help them see and be seen.
- Remind them to keep their heads up and pay attention when crossing streets. They should cross streets at corners and crosswalks whenever possible, and always look both ways before crossing.
- Encourage them to put away earbuds and headphones while trick-or-treating so they can remain aware of traffic, other pedestrians, and their surroundings.
Make sure children can see clearly
- Consider using face paint instead of masks, since masks can obstruct vision.
- Use only non-toxic face paint and makeup, and test products in advance if a child has sensitive skin.
- Help them remove their face paint or makeup before bedtime to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
- Avoid decorative contact lenses unless they have been prescribed and properly fitted by an eye care professional.
Review a few important safety reminders
- Remind children never to enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.
- Encourage them to stay in well-lit areas and travel with friends or family members.
- Have them wait until they get home before eating any treats.
- Check candy and other treats for signs of tampering or choking hazards.
- If you’re driving on Halloween night, slow down in residential areas and remain alert for children who may enter the roadway unexpectedly.
Whether you’re trick-or-treating, heading to a party, or handing out candy at home, we wish you and your family a safe and enjoyable Halloween. Happy haunting!
