During spooky season, streets will be filled with superheroes, ghosts, goblins, and witches on Halloween night! The most popular trick-or-treat times are after sundown, making children in dark costumes harder to see.
Here are some Halloween Safety Tips to help everyone stay safe this holiday!
Go for the glow: Make children easier to see, especially when crossing the street. Have children carry glow sticks and use reflective tape on dark costumes and bags. Glowing necklaces and bracelets are fun Halloween favorites too.
Safety in numbers: Have older children travel in groups for added safety. Have your teens tell you where they are going and what time to expect them back. Younger children escorted by adults can also travel in groups to add to the fun and safety of everyone.
Everybody look both ways, and sideways: Drivers should slow down and be on the lookout for excited children running and crossing the streets. Also pay closer attention to driveways, side streets and sidewalks. Parents can also remind little ones to STOP & look both ways before crossing the street. Minimize street crossings by staying on one side of the street & crossing at the street corners.
Keep costumes comfy and safe: Make sure costumes are flame-retardant for added safety. Avoid costumes with billowing sleeves or long skirts or cloaks that drag on the ground to avoid tripping. Masks should not limit your child’s vision. Consider face makeup instead of large masks.
Trick-or-treat, then eat: Remind children not to eat any of their treats until they get home and you can inspect their loot. Discard candy with open wrappers, or anything that looks old. It’s a good idea to throw out any homemade items, unless you are sure they are from someone you know and trust. This is especially important for children with allergies. While intentions may be good, you can’t know exactly what’s in those cookies your neighbor made.
This was last updated 10/17/2023.
For more traffic safety tips for children, visit our AAA School Programs page.
