LOS ANGELES, October 29, 2025 — Halloween is no longer just for kids. From costume parties to haunted houses, people of all ages are joining the fun. The American Red Cross encourages everyone to celebrate safely with these tips to help keep families, pets and neighborhoods safe this Halloween.

COSTUME SAFETY: BE SEEN AND SAFE
• Choose face makeup over masks to keep vision clear.
• Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags.
• Wear light-colored clothing when possible.
• Select flame-resistant costumes and wigs.
• Avoid long, trailing fabric that could cause trips or falls.
• Skip decorative contact lenses unless prescribed by an eye care professional.
• Use battery-operated lights or glow sticks instead of candles in jack-o'-lanterns.

TRICK OR TREAT SAFETY: STAY ALERT

Children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a car on Halloween than on any other day of the year.

• Stick to sidewalks. If none are available, walk facing traffic at the edge of the road.
• Cross streets at corners, not between parked cars or through yards and alleys.
• Carry flashlights to light the way.
• Young children should be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.
• Older children going alone should follow a planned route and return home at a set time.
• Only visit homes with porch lights on. Accept treats at the door—never go inside.
• Walk, don’t run. Be cautious around pets, especially dogs.
• Check treats before eating. Remove loose candy, open packages and unfamiliar brands.
• If welcoming trick-or-treaters, light your walkway and remove tripping hazards like leaves or decorations.

ADULT SAFETY: CELEBRATE RESPONSIBLY
Halloween sees a spike in alcohol-related traffic incidents. Many Halloween fatalities are linked to impaired driving.
• If hosting a party, collect keys from guests who are drinking.
• Offer non-alcoholic beverages and help guests plan a safe way home—rideshare, taxi or a sober driver.
• If drinking, choose a designated driver or consider staying overnight.

PET SAFETY: KEEP FURRY FRIENDS CALM
Halloween can be stressful for pets. Loud noises, costumes and unfamiliar visitors may cause anxiety or escape attempts.
• Keep pets in a quiet, secure area away from the festivities.
• Ensure pets can’t access Halloween treats, which may be toxic.
• If dressing up your pet, make sure the costume doesn’t restrict movement, breathing or vision.
• Use reflective collars and leashes if pets go outside after dark.
• Make sure your pet wears an ID tag in case they run off.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.