Halloween Safety 2025

For parents: 

• Make or buy costumes made from light-coloured materials. 
• Avoid, where possible, plastic and synthetic fabrics that can easily catch fire. 
• Attach strips of reflective tape to both the front and back of costumes to enhance visibility for drivers. 
• Dress your child appropriately for the weather and consider adding extra layers if necessary. 

If your child is going out without an adult: 

• Make sure your child is part of a group of at least three. 
• Provide them with a torch and, if available, a charged mobile phone. 
• Discuss the agreed route they should follow and instruct them to contact you if they intend to go a different way. 
• Whenever possible, avoid crossing main roads and railway crossings. 

For children: 

• Don't go to houses that are dark (don’t have lights or decorations on) and never go into a stranger's house. 
• Avoid going to houses where older or vulnerable people live, as they might not enjoy Halloween as much as you do! 
• Try to visit the homes of your friends, family, or nearby neighbours. 
• Watch out for candles near doorsteps. 
• If your costume catches fire, remember to STOP, DROP and ROLL. 

For homeowners: 

• Turn on outdoor lights and replace any bulbs that are not working. 
• Remove items from your driveway or porch that could make a child trip. 
• Clear away wet leaves from your steps and driveway. 
• Use items like torches, LED lights, or battery-operated candles instead of real candles for your decorations. 
• Some children have allergies, so consider offering treats like stickers, pens, or stamps. 
• If you don't want to take part in trick-or-treating, you can put a polite note on your door. 

For drivers: 

• Be careful when you see small groups of people walking on the pavement and near places where they might cross the road. 
• Drive to road conditions and adhere to speed limits. 
• Slow down in neighbourhoods where there might be groups of people, often wearing dark clothing and Halloween outfits crossing the road. 

A safe Halloween means a fun Halloween.