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For many American children (and grown-ups), Halloween is one of the greatest and most anticipated nights of the year. It’s a time to get creative, crazy, wacky, and spoooooky as we carve menacing jack-o-lanterns and adopt frightening alter egos. While it is important to help our children free their inner ghouls, princesses, witches, ninja warriors, and any other monstrosity they can dream up, it’s just as vital that we make sure our kiddos don’t forget the Halloween safety rules for the trick-or-treating frenzy.

Below are talking points to communicate with your younger and older kids so they know exactly what is expected of them during their trick-or-treating event. Remind them that their safety is the #1 priority!

Tips for Safe Trick-or-Treating with Kids of All Ages

Halloween Ghost
  1. Plan a route. Plan your trick-or-treat route ahead of time so that you know what parts of the neighborhood or community are best to go to. Look for well-lit areas, sidewalks, and places that are known for being welcoming to trick-or-treaters.
  2. Stay on the sidewalks. If your neighborhood has sidewalks, use them! Sidewalks are much safer to travel on than roads. If the neighborhood doesn’t have sidewalks, make sure you walk closely along the sides of the road, keeping an eye out for traffic.
  3. Wear reflective clothing. If you’re trick-or-treating late at night and it’s hard to see, wearing reflecting clothing is a precaution that families should consider so that passing vehicles can easily spot your family.
  4. Respect neighborhood property. Remind your children to respect each neighbor’s property by walking on sidewalks, paths, or the driveway instead of the yard.
  5. Visit welcoming homes. Some homes will have their lights off because they’re not passing out candy. Remind your kiddos to only walk up to houses that noticeably pass out candy.

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Trick-or-Treat Safety Rules for Young Kids

Children In Halloween Costumes
  1. Adult supervision. An adult should always accompany children 12 and under.
  2. Stay together. Remind small children that they should never walk into the street or run ahead with Mom or Dad close by.
  3. Costume safety. Ensure your kiddo’s costumes won’t trip them up or obscure their vision while walking.
  4. Have a designated meeting place. Make sure children know what to do if they get separated from you. Think about having a designated meeting place.
  5. Check Candy. Halloween candy should always be vetted before being given to small children to enjoy. Check for open wrappers or any signs of mishandling.

Trick or Treat Safety Rules for Older Kids

Girl Dressed Up As Witch On Halloween
  1. Walk in groups. Older children should trick-or-treat in groups and have a designated meeting point.
  2. Have a cell phone on hand. Children who trick-or-treat without an adult should carry a cell phone in case of an emergency.
  3. Walk familiar routes. Older kids should stay in familiar areas with planned routes.
  4. Set a curfew. Give older kids a curfew. There are always set hours for trick-or-treating. Give them 15-20 minutes to get home after the event.
  5. Be kind to younger children. Remind your older kiddos to be respectful and kind to younger children who are trick-or-treating.

With boundaries in place, children and adults of all ages can have an enjoyable time trick-or-treating in the neighborhood!

What rules do you have for Halloween safety? Is there anything we missed? We would love to hear how you keep your kids safe in the comments below!