Halloween can be great fun for the whole family, but naked flames and cheap costumes can be a dangerous combination.

Wednesday 15th October 2025

By Humberside Fire & Rescue Service

There are multiple dangers associated with the American tradition of 'trick-or-treat'. Here are just a few tips to keep youngsters as safe as they can be if they are venturing out to visit friends and neighbours on a dark evening:

For parents:

• Make or buy costumes made from light-coloured materials.
• Avoid, where possible, plastic and synthetic fabrics that can easily catch fire.
• Attach strips of reflective tape to both the front and back of costumes to enhance visibility for drivers.
• Dress your child appropriately for the weather and consider adding extra layers if necessary.

If your child is going out without an adult:

• Make sure your child is part of a group of at least three.
• Provide them with a torch and, if available, a charged mobile phone.
• Discuss the agreed route they should follow and instruct them to contact you if they intend to go a different way.
• Whenever possible, avoid crossing main roads and railway crossings.

For children:

• Don't go to houses that are dark (don’t have lights or decorations on) and never go into a stranger's house.
• Avoid going to houses where older or vulnerable people live, as they might not enjoy Halloween as much as you do!
• Try to visit the homes of your friends, family, or nearby neighbours.
• Watch out for candles near doorsteps.
• If your costume catches fire, remember to STOP, DROP and ROLL.

For homeowners:

• Turn on outdoor lights and replace any bulbs that are not working.
• Remove items from your driveway or porch that could make a child trip.
• Clear away wet leaves from your steps and driveway.
• Use items like torches, LED lights, or battery-operated candles instead of real candles for your decorations.
• Some children have allergies, so consider offering treats like stickers, pens, or stamps.
• If you don't want to take part in trick-or-treating, you can put a polite note on your door.

For drivers:

• Be careful when you see small groups of people walking on the pavement and near places where they might cross the road.
• Drive to road conditions and adhere to speed limits.
• Slow down in neighbourhoods where there might be groups of people, often wearing dark clothing and Halloween outfits crossing the road.