Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween is a fun and festive time for families and neighbors to come together, but it is also important to keep safety top of mind. As you prepare for an evening of costumes, candy, and trick-or-treating, we encourage everyone to review the following safety reminders. Whether you are trick-or-treating with little ones, welcoming visitors to your home, or driving through the community, a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for everyone.

TIPS FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS

• Carry a flashlight or glow stick to help you see and be seen after dark.
• Stay with a group and an adult. Younger children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult.
• Never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle to receive a treat.
• Use sidewalks whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic along the edge of the road.
• Avoid crossing the street repeatedly. Visit homes on one side of the street before crossing to the other side.
• Look both ways before crossing the street and use crosswalks whenever available. If wearing a mask, remove it before crossing to ensure a clear view of traffic.
• Wait until an adult checks your candy before eating any treats. Avoid homemade or unwrapped items from people you do not know.
• Stay on well-lit paths and visit homes with their porch lights on.
• Choose costumes that fit properly and avoid long, trailing fabric or accessories that could cause trips and falls.
• Be respectful of neighbors and property. Remember that Halloween fun should never involve damaging property or disturbing others.

TIPS FOR PARENTS

• Choose bright, visible costumes. Add reflective tape to costumes, shoes, and trick-or-treat bags to help children stand out in the dark.
• Bring flashlights or glow sticks and make sure all devices have working batteries.
• Prioritize visibility. Masks can restrict a child’s vision, so consider face paint or makeup instead. If a mask is worn, ensure the eye openings allow a clear field of vision and remind children to remove it when crossing streets.
• Choose safe costume accessories. Avoid props that resemble real weapons, such as guns, knives, or swords. If props are used, ensure they are lightweight, flexible, and clearly identifiable as toys.
• Check your property for hazards. Remove garden hoses, flowerpots, decorations, and other obstacles from walkways and steps. Keep outdoor areas well-lit and pathways clear.
• Inspect all treats before children eat them. Discard any candy that is unwrapped, damaged, or appears suspicious.
• Plan your route ahead of time. Establish a meeting point, set expectations for older children, and ensure they know how to contact you if needed.
• Consider alternative celebrations. Check with your child’s school or local community organizations for Halloween parties and other family-friendly activities.
• Talk with older children about responsible behavior. Make sure they understand the difference between harmless Halloween fun and vandalism, trespassing, or other inappropriate behavior.

TIPS FOR BUSINESSES AND MOTORISTS

• Be mindful of potentially dangerous purchases or activities. Report suspicious behavior involving items that could be used to cause injury or property damage, such as paintball guns or large quantities of eggs.
• Drive slowly and cautiously throughout the community. Children may be excited, distracted, or difficult to see after dark.
• Watch carefully at intersections, driveways, and crosswalks. Be especially alert for children crossing between parked cars.
• Avoid distractions while driving. Put away mobile devices and remain focused on pedestrians and other vehicles.
• If possible, avoid driving through areas with heavy trick-or-treating activity and allow extra time to reach your destination.

REPORTING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY

Please report suspicious activity to the appropriate local law enforcement agency. For emergencies or situations involving immediate danger, call 911.

Thank you for doing your part to keep our community safe this Halloween. With a little extra care, consideration, and awareness, we can all help make the holiday enjoyable for families, children, and neighbors throughout the community.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Halloween!