From costumes to candy: the safety checklist every family needs

With Halloween right around the corner, families are busy planning costumes, buying candy and decorating their homes. But amidst the excitement, safety should be a top priority. This festive night—meant for costumes and candy—can quickly take a dangerous turn if precautions aren’t taken. According to safety experts Judy Chavez from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Amy Bryant, Crime Prevention Specialist with Sandy City Police, Halloween is one of the riskiest nights of the year for children and families.

Here’s how you can enjoy the frightful fun without real scares.

Costume Safety: Keep it Fun and Flame-Free

“Costumes should fit properly—not too long, loose or baggy,” Chavez said. “Long, flowing fabric can lead to trips and falls or even become a fire hazard if it brushes up against open flames like in Jack-o'-lanterns.”

When choosing costumes:

• Opt for flame-resistant materials like polyester or nylon.
  
• Avoid sheer cotton or rayon, which are more flammable.
  
• Add reflective tape or glow sticks to ensure visibility at night.
  
• Use hypoallergenic makeup and remember to remove it before bedtime—especially for 

kids with sensitive skin.

Chavez added, “Costume safety isn’t just about fire. It’s about preventing falls, rashes and other injuries we see every Halloween.”

Home Security: Don’t Let the Wrong Goblin In

Bryant reminds homeowners that Halloween isn’t just busy for trick-or-treaters—criminals may be lurking, too. “Keep all doors and windows locked, whether you're home or not,” Bryant said. “Don’t assume because it’s a family night that everyone has good intentions.”

Other tips:

• Don’t open the door to strangers if you're not expecting them.
  
• Teach kids not to answer the door without an adult's permission.
  
• Install deadbolt locks with a 1.5-inch throw for added security.
  
• Use long screws in strike plates for stronger resistance to forced entry.
  

And don’t forget the garage. “Garage doors left open are an open invitation,” Bryant said. “Close and lock them—and if you're going out of town, unplug the garage opener entirely.”

Porch Pirates Beware: Protect Your Packages

Halloween kicks off the holiday season, which often includes more online shopping and deliveries. “Track your packages and get them off the porch as soon as they arrive,” Bryant said. “Porch pirates are waiting for a chance to snatch them.”

Consider having packages delivered:

• To your workplace
  
• To a trusted neighbor
  
• To a secure community locker
  

Also, let trusted neighbors know if you’ll be out of town. “They can keep an eye on things, collect packages, and even roll out your trash bins to make it look like you’re home,” she added.

Trick-or-Treating: Safety on the Streets

Trick-or-treating is a highlight of Halloween—but it also poses risks, especially after dark.

Bryant emphasized: “An adult should always accompany children. Even if they think they’re old enough, parents need to be nearby.” According to Chavez, the CPSC estimates 3,600 Halloween-related injuries occurred in recent years, many due to falls, allergic reactions and decoration-related accidents.

To stay safe:

• Use sidewalks and crosswalks—never jaywalk.
  
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
  
• Equip costumes with flashlights, glow sticks or reflective gear.
  
• Choose well-lit neighborhoods and avoid poorly lit areas.
  

“Motorists, too, need to do their part,” Bryant said. “Drive slowly, keep headlights on, and be extra cautious in residential areas.”

Don’t Let Decorations Become a Disaster

That adorable Jack-o'-lantern on your porch? It might be a fire risk.

“If you use candles, never leave them unattended,” Chavez said. “Better yet, opt for battery-operated LED candles.”

Also:

• Bring in pumpkins and outdoor décor at the end of the night.
  
• Avoid leaving anything out that can be vandalized or used dangerously.
  
• Monitor any electrical decorations for exposed wires or overloading outlets.
  

Have Fun, Stay Safe

Halloween is meant to be fun—not hazardous. With the right precautions, families can enjoy the thrills of the season without becoming part of the injury statistics. As Chavez puts it, “It’s about making smart choices. We want Halloween to be memorable for the right reasons.”

Learn more holiday safety tips on Holly’s Highlights podcast, available wherever you stream podcasts, including www.hollycurby.com. Stay alert, stay visible and stay safe. Happy Halloween!