Getting ready for Halloween?

Use the tips and checklists below for a stress free and fun night!

Whether you’re a parent preparing to take little ones trick-or-treating or a homeowner welcoming costumed visitors, a bit of planning goes a long way in making the night safe and enjoyable.

Use these simple checklists to ensure you’re set for a fun-filled Halloween with safety in mind.

Costumes

  • Check length of costumes
  • Make sure masks are fitted correctly so that children can see.
  • Dress children in comfortable shoes for walking.

Purchase

  • Glow Sticks
  • Safety Pins
  • Wet Wipes
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Water bottles
  • Hair Ties or rubber bands
    • Put all in a container in the car

Trick-or-Treating Safety

  • Always accompany younger children; for older kids, set a curfew and route.
  • Remind kids to use sidewalks and cross at designated crosswalks.
  • Carry a flashlight or use phone flashlights to stay visible.
  • Inspect candy at home and discard any opened or unwrapped treats.

Stranger Safety, We think these things go without saying, but this is a great time for an extra family discussion.

  • Remind children never to enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.
  • Encourage kids to only approach well-lit homes.
  • Set clear rules for where kids can go, especially if they’re out with friends.

Tips for Home Owners

Front Yard and Walkway Prep

  • Clear walkways of obstacles like hoses, decorations, or loose stones.
  • Use flameless candles or string lights to keep the area well-lit.
  • Secure pets indoors to prevent them from getting loose or scaring trick-or-treaters.

Candy and Treat Safety

  • Hand out store-bought, individually wrapped candy for hygiene and safety.
  • Consider offering some diabetic candy option for children with diabetes
  • Consider putting a sign out so that parents know that you have this option.

To Buy

  • Walkway lights
  • Candy
  • Sugar free candy

Decorations

  • Avoid decorations that could pose a tripping hazard, especially on walkways.
  • Use battery-powered lights in pumpkins instead of open-flame candles.
  • Turn off porch lights when you are out of candy.
  • Enjoy kids of ALL ages who are out enjoying this holiday. Remember, growing up is hard.