Halloween Trick-or-Treating Guide and Etiquette

Tips

• Have a dry run for young first-time trick-or-treaters: test costumes, practice saying 'trick or treat' and 'thank you', and familiarize them with the area.
• Make sure your trick-or-treater can be seen: carry a flashlight, give each child a small flashlight, and add reflective tape to costumes.
• No candy eaten until home: inspect all candy and dispose of anything suspicious or unwrapped; especially important for children with food allergies.
• Limit the number of trick-or-treaters going to a door at once: only two or three kids to ensure each gets attention and the giver isn't overwhelmed.
• If taking a dog trick-or-treating, ensure it is people-friendly, trained, and desensitized to costumes and crowds.
• If giving out treats, turn your front porch light on and open shades; when done, turn off lights and close shades.
• Make sure the walkway to the front door is unobstructed and safe for children.
• Don't be too scary: tone down scary decorations, wear a fun rather than frightening costume, smile and be friendly.
• Put thought into treats: pass out 'fun-sized' traditional candy bars, avoid homemade treats; consider offering coins as an alternative.
• If you don't see a light on, don't ring the doorbell.
• Be polite: always say 'thank you', if offered candy you don't like you can politely decline or take some anyway; if a candy bowl is left out, take only one or two pieces.
• Be respectful: do not run across lawns or knock over decorations; stay on the driveway or path.
• If your child has allergies, look for teal pumpkins indicating allergy-safe treats.