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Vermont Halloween Alert: Burlington-Rutland Safety Tips for Oct. 31
Burlington, VT – Halloween is just days away, and families from Burlington to Rutland and communities across Vermont are preparing for a Saturday evening filled with costumes, candy and trick or treat
By Evan Cross · 2026-10-28T20:02:55.433Z
Burlington, VT – Halloween is just days away, and families from Burlington to Rutland and communities across Vermont are preparing for a Saturday evening filled with costumes, candy and trick or treating. With chilly fall temperatures, early darkness and children walking through residential neighborhoods, parents should take extra precautions before heading out Oct. 31.
According to the National Safety Council, pedestrian visibility, traffic awareness and adult supervision are important precautions for reducing Halloween related injuries.
Here are 10 essential safety steps Vermont families should follow, from getting ready at home to returning safely with Halloween candy.
Before Heading Out 1. Plan Your Trick or Treating Route
Choose familiar, well lit neighborhoods, check local trick or treating hours and establish a return time. Make sure older children understand their boundaries.
2. Choose Safe, Comfortable Costumes
Avoid oversized shoes, dragging fabric and masks that restrict vision. Comfortable footwear is important on uneven sidewalks, gravel driveways and neighborhood steps.
3. Make Costumes Visible to Drivers
Add reflective tape to costumes and candy bags. Carry flashlights or glow sticks to help motorists spot children after sunset.
4. Prepare for Vermont's Fall Weather
Late October can bring cold temperatures, gusty winds, rain or even snow in higher elevations. Check Saturday's local forecast and dress children in warm layers that won't create tripping hazards.
While Trick or Treating 5. Stay Together and Stay Alert
Young children should remain with a responsible adult. Older children should travel in groups, carry charged phones and check in regularly.
6. Walk, Don't Run
Use sidewalks whenever available. Where sidewalks are missing, walk facing traffic and remain as far from moving vehicles as safely possible.
7. Watch for Cars at Every Crossing
Cross at intersections, look both ways and never assume approaching vehicles will stop. Drivers should slow down and watch for children entering streets unexpectedly.
8. Be Careful at Every Door
Approach well lit homes, remain outside when collecting candy and never enter unfamiliar homes or vehicles.
After Returning Home 9. Inspect Halloween Candy
Parents should examine treats for damaged packaging, potential allergens and choking hazards. Discard anything questionable before children begin eating.
10. Keep Halloween Decorations Fire Safe
Use battery operated LED candles instead of open flames inside jack o' lanterns. Keep costumes and decorations away from heaters and other heat sources.
A Final Reminder for Vermont Families With Halloween falling on Saturday, Oct. 31, families should prepare for children walking through residential neighborhoods throughout the evening.
From Burlington and Rutland to South Burlington, Montpelier, Barre and Brattleboro, drivers should remain especially alert after sunset, particularly on poorly lit roads and in rural communities.
A few simple precautions can help ensure Halloween ends with candy, costumes and happy memories instead of preventable emergencies.