Halloween is almost upon us, folks.
In just two days (Friday, 31 October 2025), the neighbourhood streets will be swarming with costumed kids in search of sweet treats. Or, if they’re unsuccessful in their candy hunt, they’re sure to get up to mischief by playing some harmless tricks.
Indeed, Halloween has become extremely popular among the South African youth (and adults, too!). However, this spooky occasion does present some equally spooky risks.
Luckily, there are ways to mitigate these risks so that Halloween is full of treats instead of unwanted frights!
WARD OFF BAD VIBES WITH THESE HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
To ensure Halloween goes smoothly, take note of the following five safety tips:
1. ACCOMPANY YOUR KIDS
Whether you have young children or you happen to be looking after somebody else’s kids during Halloween, you should always accompany them when they go trick-or-treating. Never let them go alone, even if they’re collecting sweets from only the houses in your street.
If your children are older, strongly urge them to travel together in groups. After all, safety lies in numbers.
2. LIGHT IS YOUR FRIEND
Children love to dress up like their favourite superheroes, princesses and princes, or classic horror icons. However, such costumes typically don’t come equipped with built-in lighting à la high-visibility vests.
Stick to trick-or-treating in areas where there is sufficient lighting, namely in the form of street lights. Similarly, says Blue Security, you and the kids can carry torches and glow sticks (make sure that these glow sticks aren’t leaking).
3. USE WHATSAPP FOR PLANNING
Most folks turn to their neighbourhood WhatsApp groups for Halloween planning.
Through these groups, you and your neighbours can put together a trick-or-treating map, determine which houses will be dishing out sweets, and decide whether you want to add your home to the route.
Not only will this guarantee a fun and safe experience for your little ones, but it’s also a great way to foster a sense of community.
4. KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE
Doorbells ringing and masked figures arriving at your door every few minutes can be distressing for your pets. At worst, they can easily run out when you open the door for trick-or-treaters, some of whom may be frightened by animals.
For your pets’ protection, keep them indoors. Specifically, place them in a quiet room away from the activity at the front of the house.
5. SCRUTINISE THE TREATS FOR ANY TRICKERY
Nothing is more exciting than scoring free sweets on Halloween. Unfortunately, some wayward souls out there take advantage of the occasion to tamper with these treats before handing them out to unsuspecting trick-or-treaters.
Make sure that you carefully inspect these confections before you or your little ones eat them. For example, if the seal on a chocolate bar looks broken or a sweet wrapper is partially damaged, there’s a strong possibility that it’s been tampered with. That’s your cue to chuck them away or keep them aside if you plan to report your suspicions to the appropriate authorities.
Additionally, only accept treats – store-bought or homemade – from people you trust.
STAY SAFE THIS HALLOWEEN
For all its spookiness, Halloween is meant to be a fun and safe occasion for everyone.
In South Africa, you and your children deserve to enjoy this occasion as much as everyone else in the world. By following the aforementioned safety tips, it’s possible to do so.
Happy trick-or-treating!
