Halloween Costume Safety

Rule 1: Be visible

The biggest danger on Halloween night isn't candy or monsters : it's traffic. Large numbers of children are crossing streets in the dark, often between parked cars, and many costumes are black. Studies of U.S. traffic data have found a higher risk of child pedestrian deaths on Halloween evening than on other nights.

Make every costume visible:

• Reflective tape on the front, back and sides of costumes and treat bags. It's cheap, comes in black for dark costumes, and lights up in headlights.
• Light sources: a flashlight, headlamp, light-up shoes or necklace, or glow sticks.
• Bright treat bags or pumpkins rather than dark ones.
• Bright colors where possible : or a light-colored accessory with a dark costume.

In 2026, Halloween falls on Saturday and daylight saving time ends the following morning, so most trick-or-treating will happen in full darkness after sunset around 6 p.m.

Rule 2: Be able to see

Masks are the classic costume problem. They restrict peripheral vision, slip out of place and can make breathing uncomfortable.

• Use face paint or makeup instead whenever possible : Halloween Makeup Ideas has easy looks.
• If wearing a mask, ensure eyeholes are large, it fits snugly and the child can see to both sides.
• Push masks up or take them off when walking between houses or crossing the street.
• Make sure hats, wigs and hoods don't slide over the eyes.

Rule 3: Choose safe materials

• Look for flame-resistant labels on costumes, wigs and accessories. This doesn't mean fireproof, but these materials resist burning and extinguish more quickly.
• Avoid loose, billowing fabrics around jack-o'-lanterns lit with real candles. Better still, encourage neighbors to use LED candles.
• Teach kids to stop, drop and roll if clothing catches fire.

Rule 4: Get the fit right

Many Halloween injuries are simple trips and falls.

• Hem costumes so they end above the ankle.
• Wear real shoes that fit : not costume shoes, oversized boots or heels.
• Avoid long trains, tails and capes that can catch on steps or tangle in legs; keep capes short.
• Make sure the costume allows a full range of movement for climbing stairs.
• Try it on a week ahead and walk around the house and yard.

Rule 5: Props should be soft and short

• Swords, wands, broomsticks and pitchforks should be soft, flexible and short.
• Avoid anything that could be mistaken for a real weapon.
• Keep props light : kids end up carrying them all night.

Rule 6: Protect skin and eyes

Makeup

• Use face paints labeled for skin and for the intended application area; follow the product directions and FDA makeup guidance. Never use craft paints or markers.
• Patch-test on the inner arm 24 hours before.
• Remove makeup before bed to avoid skin irritation.

Contact lenses

Decorative "cat eye," "zombie" or colored lenses sold online or in costume shops without a prescription are illegal to sell that way in the U.S. and can cause corneal scratches, infections and permanent vision damage. If you want special lenses, get them prescribed and fitted by an eye doctor.

Fake blood and teeth

Choose mouth-safe products if they're near lips; check for allergies to latex in prosthetics and teeth.

Rule 7: Dress for the weather

Late October can be cold, wet or windy across much of the country.

• Plan costumes that work over warm layers : or build the jacket into the costume.
• Waterproof boots can be decorated to match.
• Pack hand warmers and a light rain poncho.
• In warm climates, ditch the heavy mask and bring water.

Comfort makes for a longer, happier night

Comfort is a safety feature. A child who is cold, can't see or keeps tripping will be cranky and distracted near roads.

• Keep the costume light and the treat bag manageable.
• Choose breathable fabrics.
• Plan breaks and bring a snack and water.

Trick-or-treating safety checklist

1. Children under about 12 go with an adult; older kids in groups with a planned route and check-in time.
2. Stay on sidewalks; walk facing traffic if there are none.
3. Cross at corners and crosswalks; never between parked cars.
4. Visit only well-lit houses.
5. Never enter a house or car for a treat.
6. Sort candy at home and discard anything unwrapped or with torn packaging.
7. Watch for kids with food allergies : look for teal pumpkins.

Learn more about the evolution of the night in Trick-or-Treating Explained, and consider a trunk-or-treat for younger children.

For drivers

• Slow down in residential areas between about 5 and 9 p.m.
• Watch for kids darting out from between parked cars.
• Enter and leave driveways carefully.
• Turn headlights on early.

A safe costume is a great costume

Reflective details can be woven into the design, makeup often looks better than a mask, and comfortable shoes mean more houses visited. A few small choices make Halloween night safer for everyone. For safety from the host's side, read Best Practices for a Trick-or-Treat-Friendly Home.

Frequently asked questions