Halloween Safety Tips for a Fun and Spooky Night

Halloween is just around the corner, and while it’s a time for spooky fun, costumes, and candy, it’s also important to stay safe. Whether you’re trick-or-treating with kids, handing out candy, or attending a party, following these Halloween safety tips can help ensure a memorable night without any (unintentional) scares.

Two kids holding hands at Halloween.

1. Plan Your Route in Advance

  • If you’re trick-or-treating, map out a route ahead of time. Stick to familiar neighborhoods with good lighting and sidewalks.
  • Consider using a GPS or map app to keep track of your location if you plan to explore new areas.

Toddler in a witch hat and sunglasses giving two thumbs up for our Halloween Safety tips

2. Choose Safe and Visible Costumes

  • Visibility is Key: Use reflective tape on costumes and treat bags, and bring flashlights or glow sticks to help kids stand out to drivers.
  • Avoid Masks That Obscure Vision: Masks can make it harder to see, so opt for face paint or makeup instead.
  • Check the Fit: Make sure costumes and shoes fit well to prevent tripping or falling.

A group of trick or treaters receiving candy from a very nice lady

3. Practice Trick-or-Treating Etiquette

  • Travel in Groups: Children should be accompanied by an adult or travel in groups. This is not only safer but makes for more fun.
  • Respect Neighbors: Only visit homes with porch lights on, and remind kids to be polite and respectful when receiving treats.
  • Keep to the Sidewalks: Walk, don’t run, and stay on sidewalks whenever possible. If there aren’t sidewalks, walk facing traffic and stay as close to the curb as possible.

4. Inspect Treats Before Enjoying Them

  • Before digging into the candy, inspect it at home in good lighting. Discard any treats that are unwrapped, have torn packaging, or look suspicious.
  • If your child has allergies, carry an epinephrine auto-injector and review the treats together to avoid potential allergens.

A couple in the front seat of their car, while a zombie woman waits in the back seat (they're driving her to a lovely costume party.)

5. Drive Extra Cautiously

  • If you’re driving on Halloween night, be extra alert for trick-or-treaters. Kids may be excited and dart across the street unexpectedly.
  • Slow down and watch for children at intersections, on medians, and in driveways. Be especially cautious in residential areas.

6. Light Up the Night Safely

  • Instead of candles, use battery-operated LED lights in jack-o’-lanterns and decorations to prevent fire hazards.
  • For those who will be out after dark, flashlights and glow sticks are great ways to stay visible without the risk of open flames.

7. Prepare Your Home for Trick-or-Treaters

  • Make sure walkways are clear of obstacles like garden hoses, decorations, or toys that could cause someone to trip.
  • If you have pets, consider keeping them in a separate room to prevent them from getting overly excited or anxious when visitors arrive.

By following these Halloween safety tips, you can enjoy a night filled with treats, spooky costumes, and lots of fun—without any unexpected frights! Stay safe, stay seen, and have a spooktacular Halloween!

Looking for another Halloween read? Check out last year’s post on Preparing for a Zombie Apocalypse.