1. Plan a safe route in advance
Choose familiar, well-lit streets and stick to neighbourhoods you already know. Avoid short-cuts through alleys or poorly lit paths, and plan to cross at recognised crossings. Share the route with all adults involved so everyone knows where you expect to be at each stage.
2. Stay visible in the dark
Add reflective tape to costumes and treat bags, clip on LED lights and hand out glow sticks. A small torch for each child makes a big difference and helps with kerbs and steps. Visibility is as important for drivers as it is for you.
3. Choose costumes wisely
Make sure outfits fit properly, do not drag and allow free movement. Avoid trailing capes and long hems that could cause trips. Look for costumes labelled as fire-resistant, especially if you will be near candles or lanterns. Comfortable shoes often outperform fancy footwear when walking for an hour or two.
4. Watch out for masks and face paint
Masks can limit vision and make it harder to spot traffic. Face paint is usually a better choice as long as it is suitable for children and removed before bedtime. If your child has sensitive skin or eczema, patch test first and check for products that meet UK cosmetic safety standards. See the NHS guidance on children’s skin for sensible precautions.
5. Set ground rules before heading out
Agree on sticking together, keeping to pavements and never entering a stranger’s home. Set a finish time, decide who leads each road crossing and make sure everyone knows what to do if someone gets separated. If older children are going in a group, agree on check-in times by text.
6. Supervise young trick-or-treaters
Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult or a responsible older teen. Larger groups benefit from two adults, one at the front and one at the back. If your area gets very busy, consider pairing households and taking turns so supervision stays tight and cheerful.
7. Check all treats before eating
Save the snacking for home, where you can check everything in good light. Avoid unsealed items and be careful with hard sweets for younger children. If your child has a food allergy, read labels closely and watch for precautionary wording. The Food Standards Agency’s allergy advice is a helpful refresher before you go.
8. Keep pets indoors
Costumes, doorbells and crowds can unsettle even the friendliest pet. Create a calm room with water, a favourite blanket and some background noise. Remind children not to approach animals that seem stressed.
9. Be cautious around roads
Use pedestrian crossings where possible, hold hands with younger children and keep phones away while walking. Walk, do not run, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. For more seasonal road sense, see RoSPA’s Halloween safety guidance.
10. Have a backup plan
Choose a simple meeting point such as a well-known shop. Make sure children know their surname, address and a parent’s mobile number, or place a small ID card in a pocket. Teach them to ask a shop worker or a parent with children for help if they ever feel worried.
Handy extras for parents
- Charge phones and bring a small power bank.
- Pack plasters, a bottle of water and a snack.
- Take spare layers, the UK weather can change quickly.
Keep the magic without the mayhem
Halloween should be full of laughs, lanterns and tasty treats. With a sensible route, bright accessories and clear rules, your family can enjoy a brilliant night that feels fun and safe from start to finish. A tiny bit of prep leads to fewer hiccups and many more happy memories.
Enjoyed this safety checklist? Share your own tips in the comments and help other families have a cracking night.