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Halloween Tips for Parents

Halloween is one of those holidays that can divide parents into two camps. Let's face it, most parents either love it or hate it. Can you imagine telling your children at any other time of the year... "OK kids, walk around in the dark, cause a little mayhem, scare people if possible, and be sure to beg for candy from strangers! Whoa! Our special parenting instincts tell us that it is our responsibility to keep our children safe and so of course it's expected to feel a bit concerned around Halloween.

There are things you can do as a parent to help keep the spirit of Halloween alive without feeling frightened yourself! For example, why not take part in the fun too?

Adults should accompany their children on Halloween!

There’s nothing in the parenting guidebook that says you can’t dress up in an adult Halloween costume and have a little fun too! You can feel like a kid again and also share a magical time with your kids this season. By going along for the ride, you will feel secure knowing exactly where your kids are on Halloween night.

Of course, they may feel a little self conscious particularly if they are a bit older on the thought of their parents joining in – but hey you’re the parent! Be discreet, by keep a watchful eye by standing out in front of the house as they trick or treat. You'll be looking oh so charming or scary in your own Halloween costume, and can still keep tabs on what’s going on at the same time.

Halloween Costume Safety

This is a fun and exciting holiday, but remember safety first! Kid’s costumes and adult costumes, of course should always be of the highest quality. Look for flame resistant costumes from reputable companies and manufacturers.

Halloween Flashlights and Costume Visibility

So that others can see your children, they should try to wear something reflective and each child should have their own flashlight.

Halloween Candles and Pumpkins

Be particularly careful around Halloween pumpkins and candles while dressed up in costumes. The flames can be hazardous if they come into contact with a costume. If an unfortunate situation should happen, make sure all children know the safety motto - "Stop, Drop and Roll".

Masks and Visibility

Be certain that you and your children can see clearly through any masks. In the excitement of the evening children may not be watching traffic closely. With drivers who may not to be able to see them this could spell double trouble!

Some children may be better off wearing Halloween makeup instead of big bulky masks.

Trick or Treaters Welcome or Not This Halloween?

This Halloween trick-or-treat at people’s houses or neighborhoods that you are familiar with. Even as a grown up, you should never go into a stranger’s house for any reason. If teens insist on going out Halloween alone, you should insist they carry a cell phone with strong instructions on using it if they ever feel uncomfortable.

Respect those who would rather not have trick-or-treaters on Halloween. The houses that have their porch lights off are that way for a reason. You and your kids may look darn cute in your Halloween costumes, but no means no. Besides who wants to bother people who aren't in the party mood?

Throw your own Halloween Party!

Rather not trick or treat outside in the neighborhoods? How about throwing your own Halloween costume party at home for the kids. This way the environment, and guests are of your own choosing and therefore it’s much easier to control the situation.

Truth be known, it will actually probably be more fun then tramping around in the scary night in search of Halloween treats anyway. Select a theme for your party – either light hearted fun or a spooky spectacular. LTM Party has a huge selection of Halloween decorations to serve your every whim!

Halloween Trick-or-Treat Safety Tips
from the Los Angeles Fire Department

Before Halloween:

Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.

When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.

Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.

This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.

Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.

Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.

Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.

Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home.

Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

Learn or review CPR skills to aid someone who is choking or having a heart attack.
Consider safe party guidelines when hosting an Adult or Office Party.

Fun Halloween Alternatives:

Find a special event or start one in your own neighborhood.

Community Centers, Shopping Malls and Houses of Worship may have organized festivities.
Share the fun by arranging a visit to a Retirement Home or Senior Center.

Create an alliance with College Fraternities, Sororities or Service Clubs for children's face painting or a carnival.

Before Nightfall on Halloween:

A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.

Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.

While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack O' Lantern, leave the carving to adults.

Always keep Jack O' Lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking.

Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you.

Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard.

Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.

Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry coins for non-emergency phone calls.

Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.

Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.

Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.

When Trick or Treating:

A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.


Remind Halloween Trick-or-Treaters:

By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.

Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.

Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.

Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.

Never cut across yards or use alleys.

Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.

Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.

Always walk. Never run across a street.

Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).

Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.

Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will.

Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered. No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home.

Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful ctivity.

After Trick or Treating on Halloween:
Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.

Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween. Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.

We wish you a safe and happy Halloween!

Halloween Costume and Trick or Treating
written by the National Safety Council


What's the trick to a safe Halloween? The National Safety Council offers tips to prevent injuries and deaths associated with Halloween, such as falls, pedestrian/car crashes and other hazards.

Review All Halloween Precautions

Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.

If you're driving children, be sure they exit on the curbside, away from traffic.

Children should not trick or treat alone. Ensure adequate adult supervision.

Children should travel only in familiar areas and along an established route.

Children should stop only at houses or apartment buildings that are well lit.

Children should not eat any treat until a parent has inspected it.

Know the names of older children's companions.

Dress Safely

Use only fire-retardant materials for costumes.

Costumes should be loose so that kids can wear warmer clothes underneath.

Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard.

Costumes, bags and sacks should be made of light-colored materials. Use strips of retro-reflective tape on costumes and bags to make more children visible.

Pin a card with the child's name, the parent's name and phone number inside the costume in case you are separated.

If masks are worn, they should have nose and mouth openings and large eyeholes. Facial make-up is safer and more colorful. Follow manufacturer's instruction for application.

Knives, swords and other accessories should be made from cardboard or flexible materials.
Do not allow children to carry sharp objects.

Flashlights help kids see better and be seen more clearly.

Basic Rules for Halloween for Kids

Watch for traffic. Walk on sidewalks, not in the street.

Walk, don't run, from house to house. Never cross yards and lawns where unseen objects or uneven terrain can present tripping hazards.

Never enter a home or apartment.

Parents should inspect all treats. Wait until you get home before you eat anything.
Tips for Homeowners

Basic Rules for Homeowners Decorating and Receiving Guests for Halloween

Provide adequate outdoor lighting.

Keep walkways free of obstructions.

Provide alternatives to candy and junk food. Children enjoy receiving pencils, erasers and other alternative treats that are appropriate to their age. Remember, though, that young children like to put things in their mouths.

Encourage community leaders to provide safe designated trick or treating hours or alternative celebrations.


Written by: The National Safety Council. It is a nonprofit, international membership organization dedicated to protecting lives and promoting health.

Halloween Tricks Treats and Costumes
by the American Red Cross

With witches, goblins, and super-heroes descending on neighborhoods across America, the American Red Cross offers parents some safety tips to help prepare their children for a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treat holiday.

Halloween should be filled with surprise and enjoyment, and following some common sense practices can keep events safer and more fun.

Walk, slither, and sneak on sidewalks, not in the street.

Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks, and low-flying brooms.
Cross the street only at corners.

Don't hide or cross the street between parked cars.

Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible. (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards, and brooms, too!)

Plan your route and share it with your family. If possible, have an adult go with you.

Carry a flashlight to light your way.

Keep away from open fires and candles. (Costumes can be extremely flamable.)

Visit homes that have the porch light on.

Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger's house.

Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover your eyes.

Be cautious of animals and strangers.

Have a grown-up inspect your treats before eating. And don't eat candy if the package is already opened. Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children.

Safety Tips for Halloween
by the Food and Drug Administration

Halloween Tips for Parents about Treats

Children shouldn't snack while they're out trick-or-treating. They should wait until they get home and parents have had a chance to inspect the goodies. To help prevent children from munching, give them a snack or light meal before they go--don't send them out on an empty stomach.

Tell children not to accept--and, especially, not to eat--anything that isn't commercially wrapped.

When children bring their treats home, discard any home-made candy or baked goods. Parents of young children should also remove any choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies or small toys.

Inspect commercially wrapped treats for signs of tampering, such as an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes, or tears in wrappers. Throw away anything that looks suspicious.

If juice or cider is served to children at Halloween parties, make sure it is pasteurized or otherwise treated to destroy harmful bacteria. Juice or cider that has not been treated will say so on the label.

Halloween Special for Kids and Parents
Novelty Makeup
Painting your face can be a big part of the fun on Halloween and lots of other special occasions. Most of the time people do this without a problem, but not always. Here are some pointers to help keep your fun from leaving you with a rash, swollen eyelids, or other grief.

Halloween and Makeup Special Effects Painting Your Face:

Special Effects Without Aftereffects

Decorating your face with face paint or other makeup lets you see better than you can if you're wearing a mask. A mask can make it hard to see where you're going and watch out for cars. But make sure your painted-on designs don't cause problems of their own.

Follow all directions carefully.

Don't decorate your face with things that aren't intended for your skin.

Like soap, some things are OK on your skin, but not in your eyes. Some face paint or other makeup may say on the label that it is not for use near the eyes. Believe this, even if the label has a picture of people wearing it near their eyes. Be careful to keep makeup from getting into your eyes.

Even products intended for use near your eyes can sometimes irritate your skin if you use too much. Take it easy!

If you're decorating your skin with something you've never used before, you might try a dab of it on your arm for a couple of days to check for an allergic reaction BEFORE you put it on your face. This is an especially smart thing to do if you tend to have allergies.

Color Additives: The "FDA OK"
(Or, A Little Detective Work Won't Hurt)

A big part of Halloween makeup is color. But this is your skin we're talking about. Think about what you're putting on it. You might not want to put the same coloring on your skin that a car company uses in its paint.

Luckily, you don't have to. The law says that color additives have to be approved by FDA for use in cosmetics, and that includes the just-for-fun kind that people use on Halloween. It also includes theatrical makeup.

Plus, FDA has to decide how they may be used, based on safety information. A color that's OK on your tough fingernails or your hair may not be OK on your skin. Colors that are OK for most of your skin may not be OK near your eyes.

How do you know which ones are OK to use, and where? Do some detective work and check two places:

1. The list of ingredients on the label. Look for the names of the colors. THEN...

2. Check the Summary of Color Additives on FDA's Web site. There's a section especially on colors for cosmetics. If there's a color in your makeup that isn't on this list, the company that made it is not obeying the law. Don't use it. Even if it's on the list, check to see if it has FDA's OK for use near the eyes. If it doesn't, keep it away from your eyes.

For That Ghoulish Glow
There are two kinds of "glow" effects you might get from Halloween-type makeup. Ready for some ten-dollar words? There are "fluorescent" (say "floor-ess-ent") and "luminescent" (say "loo-min-ess-ent") colors. Here's the difference:

Fluorescent colors: These are the make-you-blink colors sometimes called "neon" or "day-glow." There are seven fluorescent colors approved for cosmetics, and like other colors, there are limits on how they may be used. None of them are allowed for use near the eyes. (Check the Summary of Color Additives again.) These are their names: D&C Orange No. 5, No. 10, and No. 11; and D&C Red No. 21, No. 22, No. 27 and No. 28.

Luminescent colors: These colors glow in the dark. In August 2000, FDA approved luminescent zinc sulfide for limited cosmetic use. It's the only luminescent color approved for cosmetic use, and it's not for every day and not for near your eyes. You can recognize it by its whitish-yellowish-greenish glow.

When the Party's Over...
Don't go to bed with your makeup on. Wearing it too long might irritate your skin, and bits of makeup can flake off or smear and get into your eyes, not to mention mess up your pillow and annoy your parents.

How you take the stuff off is as important as how you put it on. Remove it the way the label says. If it says to remove it with cold cream, use cold cream. If it says to remove it with soap and water, use soap and water. If it says to remove it with eye makeup remover, use eye makeup remover. You get the picture. The same goes for removing glue, like the stuff that holds on fake beards.

And remember, the skin around your eyes is delicate. Remove makeup gently.

Now, go have a good time, and a safe one.

Consumer Product Safety Commission
Halloween Safety: Safety Alert
CPSC Document #100

Halloween Tips for Trick or Treating and Costumes
Written by he U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

A few tips for Halloween can protect children who plan to go trick-or-treating this Halloween.

Treats: Warn children not to eat any treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering.

Flame Resistant Costumes: When purchasing a costume, masks, beards, and wigs, look for the label Flame Resistant. Although this label does not mean these items won't catch fire, it does indicate the items will resist burning and should extinguish quickly once removed from the ignition source. To minimize the risk of contact with candles or other sources of ignition, avoid costumes made with flimsy materials and outfits with big, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts.

Costume Designs: Purchase or make costumes that are light and bright enough to be clearly visible to motorists.

For greater visibility during dusk and darkness, decorate or trim costumes with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's headlights. Bags or sacks should also be light colored or decorated with reflective tape. Reflective tape is usually available in hardware, bicycle, and sporting goods stores.

To easily see and be seen, children should also carry flashlights.

Costumes should be short enough to prevent children from tripping and falling.

Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes . Mother' s high heels are not a good idea for safe walking.

Hats and scarfs should be tied securely to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.
Apply a natural mask of cosmetics rather than have a child wear a loose-fitting mask that might restrict breathing or obscure vision. If a mask is used, however, make sure it fits securely and has eyeholes large enough to allow full vision.

Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be of soft and flexible material.
Pedestrian Safety: Young children should always be accompanied by an adult or an older, responsible child. All children should WALK, not run from house to house and use the sidewalk if available, rather than walk in the street

. Children should be cautioned against running out from between parked cars, or across lawns and yards where ornaments, furniture, or clotheslines present dangers.

Choosing Safe Houses: Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome.

Children should not enter homes or apartments unless they are accompanied by an adult.

People expecting trick-or-treaters should remove anything that could be an obstacle from lawns, steps and porches. Candlelit jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes could brush against the flame. Indoor jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from curtains, decorations, and other furnishings that could be ignited.