Bloomington, Indiana – As Halloween approaches, children across Bloomington are preparing their costumes, filling bags with candy, and mapping out their trick-or-treating routes. While the holiday is a favorite for kids and families alike, pediatricians from Riley Children’s Health emphasize the importance of planning and safety to ensure the night is filled with fun, not emergencies.
“Every year, we see little witches, ghouls, superheroes and more go up and down our streets on Halloween, looking for treats and making lifelong memories,” said Brechin Newby, MD, Riley Physicians Pediatrician and IU Health Medical Group South Region Chief Physician Executive.
Trick-or-treating can create wonderful memories, but doctors stress that vigilance and preparation are key. “Having a plan and being vigilant can help ensure those memories are positive ones,” added Jeremy Mescher, MD, Riley Physicians Pediatrician.
The Riley team offers several practical tips to keep children safe while celebrating. First and foremost, parents should pay attention to costumes and accessories. Costumes should fit well, shoes should be comfortable, and masks must allow for clear vision and easy breathing. Because it can get chilly, dressing in layers or warm clothing is also recommended.
Another important consideration is visibility. Pediatricians recommend using reflective tape, flashlights, glow sticks, or other reflective tools to make children more visible to drivers, particularly in low-light conditions. Children should be reminded to look both ways when crossing the street and to use crosswalks whenever possible. Drivers, in turn, should exercise extra caution when navigating neighborhoods filled with excited trick-or-treaters.
Makeup and face paint are popular costume accessories, but safety matters here too. Parents should ensure that paints are nontoxic and test them on a small area of skin first to prevent allergic reactions.
Candy safety is another major concern. “And have an adult check candy before children eat it,” Dr. Newby said. “You’re looking for anything that is already-opened, allergens, and smaller candies or toys that could be a choking hazard for younger children.” If a child accidentally ingests something before it’s been checked, parents should monitor for symptoms like trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, or severe allergic reactions, and seek emergency care by calling 911 or visiting the nearest emergency department if needed.
Older children who trick-or-treat without a parent or guardian also need careful planning. Dr. Mescher suggests that they carry a cellphone, water, an emergency contact card, and follow a predetermined route. “And no matter the age, it’s essential to carry an epinephrine auto-injector if you or your child has life-threatening allergies,” he added.
For families who are not participating in trick-or-treating, pediatricians urge drivers to remain alert in residential neighborhoods. Children may be crossing streets unexpectedly, often in costumes that make them less visible. Extra caution is advised to prevent accidents.
In addition to local guidance, parents and guardians can find more comprehensive safety tips on the National Safety Council’s website at https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/autumn-safety/halloween.
By combining careful planning, attention to detail, and community awareness, families can make Halloween a night of excitement and safe memories. Pediatricians stress that a little preparation — from checking candy to making children visible — goes a long way in ensuring that the holiday remains fun, festive, and worry-free for everyone.
With these measures in place, Bloomington families can enjoy the sights, sounds, and treats of Halloween while keeping children safe and parents reassured.
