Halloween Safety Tips For Texas Families: What You Need To Know

Awareness Is the First Line of Defense

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging families to stay alert this Halloween with new safety guidance focused on protecting children and preventing crime. As part of its statewide Keeping Texas Families Safe initiative, DPS leaders say safety begins long before the candy hits the bucket - it starts with awareness and preparation.

DPS Initiative Keeping Texas Families Safe
“Keeping Texas families safe starts with awareness and action,” said DPS Homeland Security Division Chief Gerald Brown.

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Texas Troopers want families to understand that Halloween is one of the most high-risk nights of the year for children, not only because of traffic and visibility challenges, but also due to increased opportunities for criminals, including human traffickers.

Fentanyl & Human Trafficking: Hidden Threats

DPS is warning Texans about fentanyl trafficking, a growing danger where pills can be disguised to look like brightly colored candy. Just one pill laced with two milligrams of fentanyl can kill someone. Troopers advise parents to talk with their children about not accepting homemade treats, unwrapped candy, or anything that looks suspicious.

Families are also encouraged to use the iWatchTexas app, a statewide reporting system that sends tips directly to law enforcement. Suspicious activity related to human trafficking, online predators, or public safety threats can be reported through the app, on the website, or by calling the hotline. Reports are confidential.

Top 5 Things Parents Should Do Before Trick-or-Treating

• Check the Texas Public Sex Offender Registry and map your path before going out.
• Add reflective tape to dark costumes and carry a flashlight or glow stick.
• Make sure costumes allow children to see clearly and aren’t trip hazards.
• Set a group plan, including a designated meet-up location in case anyone gets separated.
• Inspect all candy at home and throw away anything that’s unwrapped or looks suspicious.

Top 5 Red Flags to Watch For While Out

• Someone offering children to enter a home or car for candy.
• Unlit houses or homes with covered windows.
• Individuals taking photos or videos of kids without permission.
• Adults hanging around areas where they don’t live or don’t have kids.
• Anyone attempting to hand out homemade treats, pills, or loose items.

Safety Tips for Drivers

Halloween night sees a spike in pedestrian injuries and fatalities. DPS stresses slowing down, eliminating distractions, and planning a sober ride. Drivers should assume children may dart into the street or cross unexpectedly.

Halloween is meant to be fun. With preparation and awareness, every Texas family can enjoy a safe night out.

Read More: How Texas Is Leading The Way In Drone Safety Initiatives