Halloween Safety

Overview

Halloween can and should be a day of fun for the children and families of our city who wish to take part in the custom of Trick-or-Treat. By practicing some basic safety tips, outlined on this page, you and your children can enjoy a safe and enjoyable Halloween!

Costumes

Having the right costume is important to your children. Having the right type of costume should be a priority for you. Try to ensure that your children's costumes are light colored so that they are easily visible. If you have to use dark colors, place reflective tape in several parts of the costume to ensure that no matter what direction they are facing, your children can be seen.

Stay away from masks. Most masks will restrict a child's vision. A good, fun and inexpensive alternative is face paint. If you are taking a group of children trick-or-treating, have everyone meet at your home a half hour before you plan to leave so the children can paint each other's faces.

Location & Timing

It makes sense to visit homes in your neighborhood and even trick-or-treat only at the residences you are familiar with. You should not enter a home to receive a treat: just stay on the porch or sidewalk outside the door. Never enter any abandoned building, deserted area or enclosed place. Tell your child never to approach cars or accept treats from persons in a car.

Some communities and community organizations host Halloween parties as a safe and fun alternative to trick-or-treating door-to-door. Try to confine your trick-or-treating to the daylight hours. If you can only take your child out in the evening, limit your visits to homes with porch or outside lighting.

Young children should never trick-or-treat without an adult. If you can't accompany your children, make sure they go trick-or-treating with an adult or responsible young adult you know well. It's always safer to go out with a group of family and/or friends.

Treats

Allow your child to accept only treats that are wrapped. Be sure to throw away any fresh fruit, unwrapped candies, open candies and any treat that looks suspicious. When giving treats, consider small toys, non-toxic bubbles, or sugar-free treats.

Remember, some children have to follow certain dietary restrictions which prohibit them from eating the traditional treats we offer on Halloween.