It’s that spooky time of year again — the air is crisp, pumpkins are glowing, and your little ones are bursting with excitement to show off their costumes and collect all the candy they can carry!

Halloween is a magical mix of imagination and sugar highs, but let’s be honest — it’s also one of the only times we actually encourage our kids to talk to strangers. So, before your tiny ghosts and superheroes head out for the night, take a moment to brush up on a few safety reminders. Here are ten tips to make sure your family has a fun (and safe!) Halloween adventure.

1. Pick a costume that’s easy to see.

Visibility is key! If your child insists on wearing a dark or spooky costume, add a few glow sticks, reflective tape, or light-up accessories to help drivers spot them. Let your kids pick their own glow gear — they’ll think it’s part of the fun.

2. Test face paint and makeup ahead of time.

Before Halloween night, do a quick patch test on your child’s hand to make sure there’s no allergic reaction or irritation. It’s a simple step that can save you from a very itchy, uncomfortable night.

3. Talk about the spooky stuff.

Younger kids can be startled by creepy decorations and scary costumes. Before heading out, explain that those “monsters” are just other kids in costume. Bring along a comfort item — like a favorite toy or blanket — if they need a little extra reassurance.

4. Remind them: never go inside a stranger’s house.

This one never gets old — and for good reason. Even if another group of kids goes inside or there’s a bowl of candy just beyond the door, your child should know to always stay outside.

5. Watch out for choking hazards.

Save the candy dive for when you get home. Keep treat bags closed during the walk so you can check for small, hard candies or toys that might pose a choking risk for younger kids.

6. Inspect all treats before they eat.

While rare, tampering can happen — so give everything a quick once-over. Be wary of:

  • Candies that look repackaged or resealed
  • Wrappers with small holes, tears, or discoloration
  • Unfamiliar or unlabelled treats

And if your child has allergies, double-check the ingredient labels before anyone digs in.

7. Be cautious with homemade goodies.

Unless it’s from someone you personally know and trust, it’s best to skip homemade treats. Teach your kids to politely say “no thank you” and move on to the next house.

8. Try painting your pumpkins instead of carving.

Carving pumpkins is fun, but those knives can be sharper than they look — and every year, hospitals see a spike in carving injuries. Painting pumpkins is a safer (and less messy!) alternative that even toddlers can enjoy. Plus, painted pumpkins last longer before they start to rot!

9. Make your jack-o’-lantern glow safely.

Instead of using candles inside pumpkins, pop in a few glow sticks or battery-powered tea lights. You’ll get that same spooky glow — without the fire hazard.

10. Clear your yard and walkway.

Even if you’re not handing out candy this year, it’s a good idea to tidy up your yard and driveway. Remove extension cords, hoses, or other tripping hazards. You never know when a wandering trick-or-treater might walk by in the dark.

Halloween should be all about fun, creativity, and a little spooky magic — not safety scares. With just a few extra precautions, you can make sure your night is full of happy memories (and maybe a few too many mini chocolate bars).

Happy trick-or-treating from everyone at Midwest! 👻🍬