NCMEC's Top Halloween Safety Tips

Halloween may look a little different this year as communities across the country are finding ways to keep kids safe in the COVID era. But if you’re planning to head out in search of tricks and treats, we’ve got some simple advice to help adults prepare this Halloween.
 

Check First

Plan out your trick-or-treat route in advance. Try to stay in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets. Try adding reflective tape to costumes or candy bags for extra visibility!

Take a Friend

While trick-or-treating with younger children, do not let children enter a home (even that awesome haunted mansion) unless you are with them. Encourage older kids to stay in familiar neighborhoods and have a charged cellphone in case of an emergency.

Tell People No

Help kids beat the tricks while trick-or-treating by instructing them to “Tell people ‘No!’” if someone tries to separate them or take them somewhere without your permission. Have kids practice firmly saying ‘No!’ and identifying adults who could help in emergency situations.


Tell a Trusted Adult

Has “Can I bring a friend!?” turned into you on your own with a gaggle of kids? Consider enlisting another trusted adult to help keep an eye on the group. 

Download these tips here, and get more parent tips about preventing abduction at Kidsmartz.org/parenttips.