However you celebrate the holiday, make sure Halloween is safe for all. Whether you’re hosting a party or driving kids to the neighborhoods with the “good” candy, it’s a time to be aware of your surroundings.
Treats for All
For many people, Halloween means dressing up and hitting to streets to Trick or Treat at night. That means groups and families of dressed up, lightly supervised kids braving whatever weather and roaming their neighborhoods with smiles and candy in mind. It’s been a well-loved tradition for many generations.
Trunk or Treating, also known as Halloween Tailgating, is a newer tradition that began gaining popularity about a decade ago. Trunk or Treating involves a group of participants who give out candy from the trunks of their vehicles. Kids can go from trunk to trunk – many of which are often decorated or themed – gathering candy. Originally seen at churches and schools, this is a way to safely gather children – typically from rural areas – when there isn’t a neighborhood available.
Safety First
But whether it’s tricks or trunks, remember to dress children appropriately for the weather, in well-fitting costumes. Always make sure that children travel in groups, and/or with supervision, and don’t enter strangers’ homes. Remind kids to stay on sidewalks, where possible, cross streets at corners or crosswalks, and not to run. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends only eating factory-wrapped treats – checking candy for choking hazards – and to avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
Be Aware on Roads
Because much of the Halloween festivities take place in twilight or after dark, it’s important to make sure that your trick or treater is visible to drivers. Use reflective tape on costumes and candy bags, wear glow necklaces or glow sticks, and always have them carry a flashlight. Just as importantly, make sure that children know not to get into vehicles with strangers.
As a driver, it’s also important to be aware of your surroundings. Watch for children, especially on streets that aren't well lit. Make sure to be patient at stops and when approaching crosswalks, and slow down and be extra cautious in busy residential areas. You should also avoid distracted driving behavior, and be extra vigilant of trick or treaters who are distracted, as well.
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