Halloween · Safety
20 Halloween Safety Tips for Kids and Parents
The boring stuff that makes the fun stuff easier: visibility, comfortable costumes, clear routes and a plan everybody understands.
Halloween is unusual because lots of excited kids are outside after dark wearing costumes that may change how well they can see, hear or move. A few simple preparations can prevent the night from turning into a scramble.
Use this as a family checklist before trick-or-treating rather than a lecture at the front door.
20 Halloween safety checks
Do the costume test and route plan before Halloween afternoon so fixes are not happening while everyone is trying to leave.
Make sure costumes can be seen
Add reflective tape, glow accessories or bright details, and carry flashlights or other lights after dark.
Keep faces and eyes clear
Masks, hats and hoods should not block side vision or hearing. Face paint can be easier than a full-face mask for some kids.
Shorten anything that can trip
Capes, robes and costume hems should stay off the ground. Shoes should be comfortable enough for the full route.
Test the costume before Halloween
Walk up stairs, sit down, use the bathroom and put on a coat while wearing it. Fix problems before leaving home.
Use safer props
Choose soft, flexible costume props without sharp points or heavy pieces that could hurt someone in a fall.
Plan the route in advance
Choose familiar streets, decide where the group will turn around, and agree on what happens if anyone gets separated.
Stay on sidewalks and crossings
Use sidewalks where available and cross streets at appropriate crossings rather than between parked cars.
Slow down around driveways
Drivers may be backing out while visibility is reduced by darkness, decorations or costumes.
Keep younger children with an adult
Little kids need close supervision around traffic, unfamiliar homes and crowded sidewalks.
Set clear rules for older kids
Agree on the route, companions, check-in plan and return time before they leave.
Use a buddy system
No one should wander off alone. Partners can also help notice dropped props, loose shoes or costume problems.
Only visit welcoming homes
Stick to houses that are clearly participating and respect homes with their lights off or signs asking visitors not to approach.
Check treats before eating
Wait until an adult has looked over collected food, especially anything unwrapped, homemade from an unknown source, damaged or unsuitable for allergies.
Know the allergy plan
For children with food allergies, bring safe backup treats and review labels before eating.
Be cautious with hard candy and small treats
Some candy can be a choking hazard for younger children. Sort the haul based on the child’s age and chewing ability.
Keep pets secure
Costumes, doorbells and crowds can stress pets. Give them a calm, secure space away from the front door if needed.
Use battery lights in decorations
Battery candles and LEDs reduce the risk of costumes, paper or decorations getting too close to an open flame.
Keep walkways clear
Move cords, decorations and props away from steps and paths where trick-or-treaters will walk.
Drive as if every block has a child in the street
Slow down, avoid distractions and expect unpredictable movement in neighborhoods with trick-or-treaters.
Have a home plan too
Make sure kids know their address, an adult phone number if appropriate, and where to go if they lose the group.