Halloween Safety Tips for Kids

Costumes that don't fight the kid

• Reflective tape on the back and sides. Add it even if the costume is dark; the tape disappears in daylight and lights up at night.
• Skip masks that block peripheral vision — face paint wins every time.
• Test-fit shoes with the costume. A trailing cape + oversized boots = ankle sprain.

The trick-or-treat plan

• Walk a planned route — write it down and share it with a co-parent.
• Kids under 12 go with an adult. Full stop.
• Everyone carries a flashlight, not just a phone light.
• Cross at corners, never between parked cars.

The candy check

The scary stories about tampered candy are largely urban legend, but the real hazards are worth watching:

• Choking risk for kids under 4 — remove hard candies, gum, and anything larger than a nickel.
• Allergens — check labels, especially for peanut butter and tree nuts.
• Homemade treats from strangers — polite pass unless you know the household.

If you're driving

Halloween night has the highest pedestrian traffic of the year. Between 5 pm and 9 pm on October 31st, slow down 5-10 mph in residential zones. Kids don't check for cars — that's on us.

The one thing kids remember

They won't remember the safest costume or the shortest route. They'll remember that you made it fun. Pack a small snack, wear something silly yourself, and let them lead the walk.