Keeping our Kids Safe this Halloween - and Beyond
By Kelli Rumpza
Halloween is a favorite time of year for many families; the crisp fall air, creative costumes, and excitement of trick-or-treating make it a night to remember. But while it’s all about fun and fright, it’s also an important time to think about safety; not just on the streets, but in our homes and communities too.
Kids learn from the environments where they grow, live, learn, and play. With today’s access to technology, they’re exposed to more information, and more products, at an earlier age than ever before. Unfortunately, that includes exposure to alcohol, nicotine, vape, delta, and marijuana products that are increasingly marketed in ways that appeal to youth.
We’ve seen a rise in youth use of these substances, and it’s not hard to see why: colorful packaging, sweet flavors, and an increase in local vape shops, dispensaries, and retail displays all make these products look harmless. Truly, they are anything but harmless. Early use can affect brain development, decision-making, and increase the risk of dependency.
Just because something comes in a bright, fun-looking package doesn’t mean it’s safe. Many THC edibles, nicotine and alcohol products are designed to look like candy or snacks and that can be dangerous. Kids (and even adults) could easily mistake these products for treats.
It might sound silly, but we need to store these items in a locked drawer or cabinet; out of sight and out of reach. Remember, even when we were kids, a cookie jar on top of the fridge wasn’t enough to stop a sweet tooth!
Always read the label and check serving sizes carefully. If you’re unsure or have concerns, ask your pharmacist, healthcare provider, or local prevention resource center for help. A little extra awareness can prevent a serious accident.
Keeping kids safe isn’t just a parent’s job, it’s a community effort. Parent or guardian, teacher, trusted adult, neighbor, coach… we can all make a difference.
- Be Aware – Understand how accessible and appealing these new products are to youth.
- Educate Yourself – Learn about emerging trends and the risks involved. (drugfree.org/article/prevention-tips-for-every-age)
- Start the Conversation – Talk about rules and expectations around substance use. Make it an ongoing discussion and connect it to what’s happening around you.
- Model Healthy Choices – Teach and demonstrate healthy coping skills, decision-making, and resilience — even when faced with challenges.
- Build Connections – Help youth feel connected to their school, faith community, or neighborhood. Feeling supported and involved can be one of the strongest protective factors against risky behaviors.
Halloween is all about fun, creativity, and community. When we work together, we can keep it that way. By staying informed, being watchful, and talking openly, we can help our kids enjoy all the thrills of the season while staying safe and healthy, not just on Halloween night, but all year long.
For more information, visit
www.humanserviceagency.org. Like us on Facebook
www.facebook.com/NEPRC.HSA.