Galveston County, TX

It's a time for ghosts, ghouls, and goblins to come out and play, and for children to fill their bags with delicious treats. However, the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management would like to remind everyone that safety should be a top priority during this fun-filled holiday. Here are some essential trick-or-treat safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for all:

1. Costume Safety:

• Ensure costumes are made of flame-resistant materials.
• Choose well-fitting costumes and shoes to prevent tripping.
• Use non-toxic face paint or makeup instead of masks, which can obstruct vision.

2. Visibility:

• Add reflective tape to costumes, treat bags, and accessories to make your child more visible in the dark.
• Carry a flashlight or glow stick to help light the way.

3. Group Trick-or-Treating:

• Encourage children to trick-or-treat in groups with a responsible adult.
• Stay on well-lit streets and use sidewalks.
• Set a time for children to return home.

4. Stranger Danger:

• Remind kids not to enter a stranger's home or vehicle for treats.
• Encourage them to stay in familiar neighborhoods and only visit houses with porch lights on.

5. Candy Safety:

• Inspect all treats before eating. Discard any opened or suspicious items.
• Be mindful of food allergies and read labels on candy packages.

6. Road Safety:

• Remind children to look both ways before crossing streets.
• Drivers, please be extra cautious and slow down in residential areas on Halloween night.

7. Pet Safety:

• Keep pets in a safe, secure place during trick-or-treating to prevent stress or escapes.
• Ensure costumes for pets are safe and comfortable.

8. Home Safety:

• Make sure your home's exterior is well-lit for visiting trick-or-treaters.
• Remove tripping hazards from your yard, walkway, and porch.

9. Emergency Preparedness:

• Carry a cellphone for emergencies and share your location with someone you trust.
• Have an emergency plan and know the location of nearby medical facilities.

10. Respect Others:

• Be mindful of your neighbors and their property.
• Keep noise levels down during late hours.