Prepared, Not Scared: The 2025 Halloween Safety Guide You Didn’t Know You Needed

Halloween looks a little different these days — and that’s not a bad thing. As families prepare for trick-or-treating and fall festivities, safety and preparedness continue to play a big role in how we celebrate.

From inclement weather to busy streets and seasonal illnesses, a little planning can help keep the spooky fun safe for everyone.

Planning Ahead: Weather, Visibility & Safe Routes

Late October in coastal Virginia can bring chilly temperatures, gusty winds, and rain showers. Always check the weather forecast before heading out. I’m a freelance meteorologist with WVEC 13NewsNow in Norfolk – here’s a link to the latest Hampton Roads’ forecast.  Dress in warm, weather-appropriate layers, and make sure costumes aren’t too long. This helps prevent tripping and keeps everyone comfortable.

Visibility is also key after sunset. Carry flashlights or glow sticks to help trick-or-treaters stand out. Add reflective tape to costumes, treat bags, or even pumpkins. If kids don’t love the look of reflective gear, decorate their candy bag or pumpkin bucket instead. It’s a simple way to stay safe — and still look festive.

Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic. Only visit homes with their porch lights on. Parents should wear reflective clothing too, so drivers can easily spot the group.

Candy Checks & Fire Safety

Before the fun begins, take a few minutes to go over candy safety. Only keep factory-sealed, fully wrapped candies, and throw away anything that looks tampered with or opened. Avoid homemade or unwrapped treats unless you personally know the source.

Inside the home, remember that decorations can also pose hazards. Avoid open flames and candles, especially if you’ll be out trick-or-treating. Use battery-powered candles or LED lights inside pumpkins for a safer glow.

Health & Hygiene: Staying Well This Season

Fall is the start of cold and virus season, so bring along hand sanitizer or wipes while you’re out. Encourage kids to use them before eating candy and when returning home.

If anyone in the family feels under the weather, it’s best to stay home. However, if staying home isn’t an option and the child feels well enough, wear masks and choose outdoor community events instead of crowded indoor activities. Trunk-or-treats, block parties, and small neighborhood events are great alternatives.

For Older Kids & Independent Trick-or-Treaters

If your child is old enough to trick-or-treat without a parent, make sure they know how to stay in touch. Cell phones should be fully charged, easy to access and trackable. Bring a portable battery pack just in case — it’s a simple backup that ensures they can reach you if their phone runs low.

Consider giving them a medical ID bracelet with emergency contact information or allergy details.

Set a clear route and meeting points in case the group gets separated. Encourage older kids to travel in small groups, stick to familiar streets, and stay in well-lit areas.

Preparedness Is the Real Treat

Preparedness isn’t just for hurricanes or floods — it applies to nights like Halloween too. Small steps, like checking the weather or carrying a flashlight, build good habits that last all year long.

To find more seasonal safety tips, visit the Home & Family Preparedness tab on PrepareWithCher.com and scroll to the Halloween Preparedness section. You’ll find resources on safe routes, fall weather planning, and ways to keep your family healthy this season.

This Halloween, let’s make safety the tradition that never goes out of style.