Stay Vigilant This Halloween: Keeping Kids Safe on the Spookiest Night of the Year

Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for children — costumes, candy, and spooky fun fill the streets. But it’s also one of the most dangerous. As families prepare for trick-or-treating, Ketterer, Browne & Davani, LLC, (KBD) Attorneys wants to remind everyone — parents, drivers, and neighbors — to stay alert and take a few extra steps to keep kids safe.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, around 3,200 Halloween-related injuries are treated in emergency rooms each year. And research published in JAMA Pediatrics shows that children are more likely to be hit and killed by a car on Halloween than any other day of the year.

That risk spikes around dusk — when visibility drops, excitement is high, and both kids and drivers can be distracted. Injury prevention experts like Emmy Sasala of Penn State Health Children’s Hospital emphasize that many of these incidents are preventable with a little preparation and awareness, including avoiding tripping hazards, skip masks, staying visible.

Safety Tips for a Fun, Injury-Free Halloween

Halloween is supposed to be fun — not frightening for the wrong reasons. Whether you’re out trick-or-treating, handing out candy, or driving through busy neighborhoods, everyone plays a role in keeping the night safe. Here’s how kids, parents, homeowners, and drivers can each do their part.

What Kids Should Do

Halloween night is exciting, but it’s also easy to forget about safety when running from house to house. A few simple habits can make a big difference:

• Stay on sidewalks and use crosswalks. Never dart out between parked cars or cross in the middle of the street.

• Make yourself visible. Wear bright colors, reflective tape, or carry glow sticks and flashlights.

• Stick with friends or family. Never go trick-or-treating alone — use the buddy system.

• Keep costumes safe. Avoid tripping hazards by making sure costumes aren’t too long or baggy.

• Skip the mask. Masks can block your vision and make it harder to see cars or steps. Use non-toxic face paint instead.

• Don’t eat candy until it’s checked. Wait for an adult to look through your treats before digging in.

What Parents Should Do

Parents are the first line of defense when it comes to keeping Halloween safe. A little planning and supervision can prevent serious accidents:

• Scout your route early. Walk your trick-or-treat path during daylight to spot tripping hazards, driveways, and dark areas.

• Supervise closely. Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult — stay within a few steps, not a block away.

• Set clear rules. If older kids are trick-or-treating on their own, agree on a curfew and keep phones charged in case of emergency.

• Check candy carefully. Watch for choking hazards, unwrapped items, and potential allergens.

• Use safe makeup and accessories. Choose hypoallergenic face paint, and avoid sharp props like swords or wands that could injure others.

• Be mindful of pets. Keep them indoors and away from open doors to avoid stress or escapes during the excitement.

What Homeowners Can Do

If you’re handing out candy, a few thoughtful steps can make your home safer for visiting children:

• Light up your walkway. A well-lit yard helps prevent trips and lets families know you’re participating.

• Clear the path. Move garden hoses, cords, or decorations that could cause tripping.

• Avoid real candles. Use LED lights or battery-operated candles in pumpkins and decorations to prevent fires.

• Keep pets secured. Even friendly pets can get startled by costumes or crowds.

• Offer allergy-friendly treats. Consider having non-food items (like stickers or toys) for children with allergies — look for the Teal Pumpkin Project as inspiration.

What Drivers Should Do

Drivers play a critical role in keeping trick-or-treaters safe. On Halloween night, slow and steady truly saves lives.

• Slow down and stay alert. Drive well below the speed limit in residential areas and stay off your phone.

• Turn on headlights early. Use them before dusk to improve visibility.

• Expect the unexpected. Kids may run out suddenly between cars or cross mid-street.

• Be careful backing out. Double-check for small children before reversing, especially in busy neighborhoods.

• Avoid alcohol or distractions. If you plan to attend a Halloween party, arrange a sober ride home before the night begins.

A Message from KBD Attorneys

Since Halloween is tomorrow, we at Ketterer, Browne & Davani, LLC (KBD) Attorneys want to share this message with every family celebrating. This night should be full of laughter and memories — not tragedy.

Please stay alert, look out for one another, and remind your kids that safety comes first. Whether you’re walking, driving, or handing out candy, your attention could save a life.

From all of us at KBD Attorneys, have a safe and happy Halloween. 🎃