Hey Everyone!

With Halloween just around the corner, many of our little ones are gearing up for a night of costumes, candy, and fun! Living in a small town like ours has its perks, especially during Halloween—it’s more intimate, and we know our neighbors. But whether you’re in a tight-knit community or not, safety should always come first. Here are some safe trick or treating tips to ensure a fun and secure night for everyone. Remember, implementing safe trick or treating tips can make all the difference in creating a memorable Halloween experience.

Here are a few important tips to ensure your kids have a fun and safe Halloween while trick-or-treating around town:

1. Choose the Right Costumes

– Visibility is key: Make sure your child’s costume is bright and easy to see, especially in the dark. If their costume is dark, consider adding reflective tape or glow sticks.

– Fit matters: Avoid costumes that are too long or bulky, as they can cause tripping. Comfortable shoes are also a must—trust me, those little feet will be walking quite a bit!

– Mask safety: If they’re wearing a mask, check that it fits properly and allows them to see clearly. Face paint is often a safer (and more comfortable) alternative.

2. Stick to Known Neighborhoods

One of the benefits of small-town living is that most people know their neighbors, but it’s still a good idea to stick to familiar streets and homes. Trick-or-treating in well-lit areas where you know the residents is safer for everyone. Plus, those neighbors are likely to be more welcoming and ready with treats!

3. Group Up

Going out in groups is always a smart move. Whether it’s a group of kids or a mix of kids and adults, there’s safety in numbers. Plus, it’s more fun to trick-or-treat with friends! If your kids are older and want to venture out on their own, make sure they stay in a group and have a way to reach you.

4. Check the Treats

This is one of those classic safety rules that never gets old. Before your kids dig into their candy stash, check it over. Look for any unwrapped or suspicious-looking items, and toss anything that seems off. Remind your kids to wait until they get home before eating any candy, so you can make sure it’s safe. Also, parents, for the trouble of this step, remember the “parent tax” and get your fair share of the Reese’s.

5. Set Boundaries & Curfews

Before heading out, agree on where the kids can go and what time they should be back. It’s easy for kids to get excited and go from house to house without thinking about time, so make sure they know when to head home. If your kids have a cell phone, remind them to check in if plans change.

6. Light Up the Night

Equip your kids with flashlights or glow sticks to make them more visible to cars and other trick-or-treaters. It also helps them see where they’re going—uneven sidewalks and dark porches can be a tripping hazard.

7. Be Aware of Traffic

Even in a small town, there are cars out on Halloween night. Drivers might not always see excited trick-or-treaters, especially if they’re darting across the street. Remind your kids to stick to sidewalks and cross at corners, using crosswalks where available. If you’re driving, slow down, stay extra alert, and watch for kids.

8. Respect Homeowners

Encourage your kids to be polite when trick-or-treating. If a house has its lights off, it usually means they’re not participating, so teach them to move on and not knock or ring the bell. Also, remind them to say thank you after getting their treats!

Halloween in a small town like ours is such a special time. With the right precautions, we can keep it fun, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. Let’s ensure our kids have a night full of laughs, spooky fun, and loads of candy—without any unnecessary scares!

Stay safe, and Happy Halloween!

Megan Mwangi, ARNP

Complete Care of Iowa