Halloween is almost here — costumes are being finalized, pumpkins are being carved, and candy is being stockpiled like it’s the apocalypse. But before the ghosts, goblins, and superheroes head out for a night of tricks and treats, let’s talk about something that’s just as important as the perfect costume — safety.

Costume Check

Before heading out, make sure costumes fit well — no tripping hazards allowed! Masks can make it tough to see, so consider face paint or makeup instead. Add a little reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes and treat bags so your little monsters are easier to spot in the dark.

Light the Way

Flashlights, glow bracelets, or even those fun light-up necklaces aren’t just cool accessories — they’re safety essentials. A well-lit trick-or-treater is a safe trick-or-treater.

Stick Together

Kids should always go out with a trusted adult, and older kids who go solo should travel in groups and stick to familiar neighborhoods. Set a curfew and make sure they have a phone (charged, please and thank you!) in case of emergencies.

Street Smarts

Remind everyone to use sidewalks and crosswalks — no darting out between parked cars, no matter how tempting that house with the king-size candy bars looks. Drivers may have a harder time seeing kids at night, so make sure everyone’s paying attention.

Candy Check

We all know the deal — don’t eat anything until it’s been inspected. Toss anything that’s unwrapped, homemade (unless it’s from someone you know well), or looks suspicious. And yes, parents, you’re entitled to a small “inspection tax” — it’s tradition.

Pet Prep

If your furry friends are part of the festivities, keep costumes simple and comfortable. Make sure pets are on leashes or safely inside — all the excitement, doorbells, and costumes can be a little overwhelming for them, too.

Be a Good Neighbor

Drive slowly through neighborhoods, keep an eye out for excited trick-or-treaters, and make sure your walkway is clear of decorations or cords that could trip someone up. And if you’re handing out treats, a little light on the porch goes a long way toward saying “welcome!”

Halloween is one of the most magical nights of the year — full of laughter, sugar highs, and memories in the making. A few safety steps ensure that the only thing scary about the night is the costumes, not the consequences. So grab your candy bowl, cue the spooky soundtrack, and have a safe and happy Halloween!

Almost all municipalities in the area have designated trick-or-treat hours for Friday, October 31, from 6 to 8 p.m. Montgomery will have a Halloween parade at 6 p.m., with trick-or-treating from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 30. Muncy’s hours will be 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, October 31. There will be a community-wide event happening simultaneously with the annual Halloween parade on S. Market Street. South Market Street will be closed from W. Penn to W. Lafayette to accommodate the festivities.

We hope this quick guide of tips and information can provide you with sound guidance for a safe and Happy Halloween!