Abilene Halloween Safety Tips From This Dad of Eight

As a Dad of eight, I can tell you Halloween at our house was about more than costumes and candy. Donna and I kept an eye on our kids and the neighborhood kids, making sure everybody was safe and having fun.

Of course, Dad had a little fun, too.

One year, a firefighter friend made me a fake bloody arm stump to wear over my missing left arm. I'd answer the front door wearing it and give trick-or-treaters a Halloween surprise. Yes, your buddy Fearless got into the spirit.

Photo by: Rudy Fernandez

But with Halloween landing on Saturday, October 31, this year, here's what matters most: getting everybody home safely.

Make Those Little Monsters Easy to See

My friend Sergeant Marc Couch with Texas DPS has reminded me that these precautions still matter, especially after dark. The department's updated Halloween guidance reinforces that message.

• Add reflective tape to costumes and candy bags, and carry flashlights or glow sticks.
• Choose costumes that fit without dragging. Use face paint instead of masks that block vision.

Walk Together and Watch Every Crossing

Safe Kids Worldwide recommends adults accompany children younger than 12. Older kids ready for more independence should stay in groups on familiar, well-lit routes.

• Use sidewalks. Where there aren't any, walk facing traffic, as far from vehicles as possible.
• Cross at corners or crosswalks, looking both ways. Never dart between parked cars.
• Put phones away while walking. Visit homes with porch lights on, and never enter a stranger's home or vehicle for candy.

Drivers, Give Our Kids Extra Room

That next porch full of candy can capture a child's attention faster than an approaching vehicle. Slow down, put the phone away, turn headlights on early, and check carefully before backing out or turning into driveways. If you're drinking, arrange a sober ride.

Save the Candy Check for Home

Have an adult inspect treats before anyone digs in. Discard unwrapped, damaged, or suspicious items, and check labels for food allergies.

Y'all, let's keep the scares on the front porch and our kids safe on Abilene's streets. Happy Halloween.