Keeping Halloween Fun — and Safe — for Everyone

Few nights capture the fun and community spirit of neighbourhood life quite like Halloween trick-or-treating. Kids fill the sidewalks in imaginative costumes, neighbours open their doors with smiles and candy, and everyone can join in by decorating porches, dressing up, or simply enjoying the excitement on familiar streets. It’s an evening that people of all ages look forward to all year.

But with all that energy and movement, Hallowe’en also brings some real risks. Trick-or-treating happens after dark, often in crowded areas, with children darting across driveways or sidewalks that are busier than usual. Many costumes reduce visibility, and masks or hats can limit a child’s field of vision. For drivers, that combination of excitement, darkness, and distraction can make it harder to spot people in the road or at intersections.

Here are some ways to make sure that the scariest things about your Hallowe’en trick or treating are the costumes:

1. Slow down and stay alert

If you’re driving through residential areas, reduce your speed and watch for children at crosswalks, curbs, and between parked cars. Use your headlights earlier in the evening and eliminate distractions.

2. Light up the night

Pedestrians can boost visibility by carrying flashlights, wearing reflective gear, or adding glow sticks to costumes and treat bags. Parents and guardians should remind kids to stay on sidewalks or paths whenever possible.

3. Choose safe costumes

Make sure costumes fit well and don’t drag on the ground. If using makeup, keep it away from the eyes; if using masks, ensure clear sightlines.

4. Cross with care

Always cross at corners or crosswalks and make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.

5. Keep pets and property safe

Secure animals indoors and keep walkways clear of decorations or cords that could trip visitors.

Trick or treating is a celebration of imagination and community. With a few precautions, it can also be a night of safe fun for everyone — drivers, pedestrians, and goblins alike.

From all of us at Thomson Rogers LLP: Have a happy and safe Hallowe’en!