Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!

Costumes are a big part of Halloween, but safety should be a top consideration. To ensure visibility and to stand out in the dark, incorporate reflective tape or material as part of children’s costumes or on their treat pail. We recommend all trick-or-treaters, especially children, carry glow sticks or flashlights to guarantee visibility at night. Properly fitting costumes are crucial; avoid long outfits that can cause tripping. Opting for face paint instead of masks can keep vision unobstructed. Additionally, ensure costumes are flame-resistant, as Halloween decorations, such as jack-o'-lanterns, may use candles.

Trick-or-treating is an annual highlight for many children. Adults should always chaperone young children, and older youth should stick to familiar neighborhoods and pre-planned routes. Group travel is safer and more enjoyable; remember, there is safety in numbers! Encourage and accompany children to only visit homes with porch lights on and to never enter a stranger’s house, even if invited.

While candy is a major part of Halloween, it is important for adults to inspect treats before letting children enjoy them. Discard any candy with open wrappers or suspicious packaging and avoid homemade treats from strangers. If your child has food allergies, teach them to recognize and avoid potential allergens, and carry an epinephrine injector (EpiPen) should it be needed. Encouraging moderation in candy consumption promotes healthier behavior and helps maintain dental health.

Amidst the excitement of eating candy, remind children to adhere to traffic safety guidelines: to use designated pedestrian crosswalks, to look both ways, and to walk—not run—between houses. With more pedestrian traffic on Halloween, it is important to stay alert. Drive with special caution in residential areas. Encourage children to avoid distracting themselves with their phones and remind them to stay aware of their surroundings. Also, it is important to teach children to watch out for vehicles when crossing driveways and to wait for cars to pass before stepping onto the street.

October weather in Lake County can be chilly, so before venturing outside, ensure children are appropriately dressed for the conditions. Dressing in layers under costumes to keep them warm is one option. Comfortable, well-fitting shoes, instead of costume-related footwear, will help children navigate their surroundings safely and easily.

While many people enjoy spooky Halloween fun, our pets may feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar sounds, costumes, and constant doorbell rings. Keep your pets indoors on Halloween night to ensure they stay safe and comfortable. Creating a cozy, quiet space for them inside will let them relax and stay away from potential stressors. It’s a great opportunity to give them extra love and attention, ensuring they enjoy the night just as much as we do. This way, everyone—pets included—can have a happy and peaceful Halloween!