Halloween Safety: Tips to Keep the Whole Family Safe This Season

As Alexandria prepares for another evening of costumes, candy, and community celebrations, the Alexandria Police Department is reminding residents to make safety part of their Halloween plans. Whether you're welcoming trick-or-treaters at home, walking through neighborhoods with family, or driving to an event, a few simple precautions can help ensure everyone enjoys a fun and safe holiday.

At Home

Homeowners can play an important role in keeping trick-or-treaters safe.

• Light up your walkway and porch so children can see clearly and avoid tripping hazards.
• Remove obstacles such as garden hoses, decorations, or uneven pavement that could cause falls.
• Consider using battery-powered candles or glow sticks inside pumpkins instead of open flames to prevent accidental fires.
• Keep pets indoors during trick-or-treating hours. Even friendly animals can become frightened by costumes and loud noises.
• If you're handing out candy, make sure to offer only store-bought, sealed treats and keep allergen-friendly options in mind.

With Family

Planning ahead is key to keeping Halloween night running smoothly.

• Map out a trick-or-treat route through well-lit, familiar neighborhoods and agree on a return time. If you need help planning your route, check out the Nextdoor Treat Map to see who's giving out candy, hosting haunted houses, or decorating for Halloween!
• For younger children, adult supervision is essential. Older kids should go in groups, stay together, and keep phones charged for quick contact.
• Establish rules about crossing streets, visiting only homes with lights on, and avoiding shortcuts through alleys or backyards.
• Encourage open communication-children should know never to enter a stranger's home or vehicle.
• Remind everyone that neighborly fun should stay lighthearted-damaging property or frightening neighbors can have serious consequences.

In Your Car

Drivers play a critical role in keeping neighborhoods safe during Halloween.

• Slow down in residential areas and be ready for children who may cross mid-block or between parked cars.
• Turn on headlights early, even before sunset, to increase visibility.
• Avoid distractions-put away phones and stay alert for unpredictable movements.
• Never drive impaired by drugs or alcohol, and plan for a sober ride home if you're attending a party.
• When pulling in or out of driveways, take extra care-small children can be difficult to see, especially in dark costumes.

Costume Safety

Creative costumes are part of the fun, but they should also be safe.

• Choose light-colored or reflective costumes to help drivers see trick-or-treaters after dark.
• Add reflective tape or glow accessories for extra visibility.
• Make sure costumes fit properly and don't drag on the ground to prevent trips and falls.
• Avoid masks that block vision; consider face paint or makeup instead.
• Select soft, flexible props like foam swords or plastic wands rather than metal or hard plastic.
• Look for costumes labeled "flame resistant" and keep them away from candles or open flames.

Personal Safety

Halloween should be fun for everyone, but it's important to stay alert.

• Walk-don't run-between houses and use sidewalks or crosswalks whenever possible.
• Put phones and devices away while walking to stay aware of surroundings.
• Carry identification or a contact card with your name and emergency number, especially for children.
• If you see something that doesn't seem right-such as suspicious behavior or unsafe activity-contact the Alexandria Police Department's non-emergency line at 703.746.4444 or call 911 in an emergency.

A Safe and Happy Halloween for All

Halloween is one of Alexandria's most anticipated community traditions, and safety is everyone's responsibility. APD will be increasing our patrols on Halloween night, but you can do your part by planning ahead, staying visible, and practicing caution, ensuring a fun and worry-free evening for all.

For more information on local safety initiatives, visit alexandriava.gov/Police or follow the Alexandria Police Department (@AlexandriaVAPD) on social media.