The Very Best Top 10 Smart Trick-or-Treat Tips
10. Choose Bright and Visible Costumes
Opt for bright colours or add reflective tape to costumes and bags so drivers can see children clearly. Clip-on LED lights and glow sticks work brilliantly. If a favourite outfit is dark, increase visibility with a reflective sash or wristbands.
9. Plan a Safe Route
Map out a circular route that sticks to well-lit streets, pavements and familiar homes. Avoid poorly lit cut-throughs and parks at night. Share the plan with older children so everyone knows where the group will be at set times.
8. Always Go in Groups
There is safety in numbers. Younger children should be accompanied by a trusted adult, while older ones can buddy up with friends and check in regularly by phone. Agree a meeting point if anyone gets separated.
7. Check All Treats Before Eating
Save the sweets until you are home or under bright light. Discard anything unwrapped or with damaged packaging. Keep an eye on allergy information and separate items that contain nuts if needed.
6. Stay Visible to Drivers
Carry a small torch and keep to pavements. Cross at zebra or signal-controlled crossings and make eye contact with drivers before stepping out. Avoid distractions like looking at a phone while near traffic.
5. Set a Time Limit
Agree a start and finish time so the evening stays organised and enjoyable. For teens, use location sharing or a group chat to confirm progress and arrival home.
4. Teach Road Safety Basics
Before leaving, remind children to stop at kerbs, look both ways and listen. Use crossings where available and never weave between parked cars. A quick refresher helps even confident walkers.
3. Avoid Masks That Block Vision
Masks can limit side vision and make tripping more likely. Consider face paint instead, choosing hypoallergenic products that are easy to wash off. If a mask is a must, enlarge eye holes carefully and add a snug strap.
2. Be Aware of Stranger Danger
Children should only approach houses that are clearly taking part and never enter someone’s home. Accept only shop-bought, sealed treats. Set clear boundaries about staying with the group and saying “no” if something feels wrong.
1. Keep Pets Secure
Door knocking and costumes can unsettle dogs and cats. Keep pets indoors and away from the door to prevent dashes outside or accidental scares for visiting children.
Helpful Resources and Extra Ideas
- Brush up on pedestrian safety with the UK Government’s road safety education pages.
- Read guidance on talking to children about personal safety from the NSPCC.
- Get the house ready for spooky visitors with 10 of the Spookiest Halloween Decorations.
- Planning a themed spread? Try these Creepy Halloween Recipes for a frightfully tasty table.