Halloween falls at a time of year that is known for wild, unpredictable weather for many parts of the country, and we need to be prepared for anything. Last year was pretty mild here in New England, but in 2012 we braved post-superstorm debris on October 31st, and in 2011 a nor’easter snowstorm tried to thwart our holiday begging. In addition to those extreme situations, our family’s Halloween has also been impacted by knee scrapes on two separate occasions due to over-exuberant children running in costumes, and probably the most dire situation of all, running out of candy to hand out to trick-or-treaters.

Even in ideal weather, Halloween can be dangerous, y’all. Hoards of kids in streets, unfamiliar yards and driveways, and all of this under the cover of mostly dark nights; we need to take special care to ensure our kids are safe.

It is hard work securing the pounds and pounds of candy that bring an official close to the month of October, but we are focused. Committed.

In 2012, when Superstorm Sandy blew in, our town actually postponed Halloween due to concerns over downed power lines and fallen trees in roadways. Our street was safe and clear, though, so we joined our neighbors in making a lap around the neighborhood so the kids could show off their costumes and do some candy gathering.

Despite the modified route, the kids actually scored the most loot that year, as every house gifted the kids heaping handfuls of candy, accurately anticipating very few trick-or-treaters.

I would say, “They don’t need that much! Oh, it’s Rolos and Baby Ruth bars? Carry on.”

I know that Halloween has strong historical ties to October 31st, but I would like to generate some conversation about moving it to a time of year with warmer, less volatile weather. This isn’t my only great idea. I also think we should declare candy a food group, make self-cleaning showers a thing, and replace the thigh gap as a measure of beauty for the classic soft belly.

Until my summertime Halloween idea takes off, Energizer has some tips for making sure our kids are safe on the very cold and very dark October 31st.

• Plan a trick-or-treat route ahead of time. Create a route that avoids major intersections, but does have safe crosswalks and sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks, be sure to walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Always look both ways before crossing any street.
• Find new ways to celebrate the holiday. Seek out neighborhood “trunk-or-treats” as alternatives to traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating. These events are great for younger children or in neighborhoods that might be difficult to navigate on Halloween night.
• Keep a portable light on hand (or head). As the sun sets, you don’t want to be caught in the dark. Energizer portable lights ensure you’re ready to hit the streets on Halloween night:
  • Energizer_® LED 2 in 1 light Fusion Flashlights – Compact and versatile, Energizer Light Fusion Technology products are convenient, water resistant and provide impressively bright long lasting light—easily seen by drivers and other pedestrians.
  • Headlights – Powerful Energizer LED headlights are lightweight and convenient – perfect for keeping hands free. That way, you may hold your child’s hand, while their other clutches the ever-important candy container. The headlight can even add to or be a part of a costume!

• Pick the right costume. Choose lightly colored costumes, while avoiding head-to-toe dark selections. Make sure the costume fits properly and shoes are comfortable. If possible, avoid masks and opt for face paint so that vision is not impaired.
• Walk, don’t run. Take your time and walk; don’t run from house to house on Halloween night. Use Energizer portable lights to be aware of decorations or other obstructions in yard and on sidewalks to avoid trips and falls.
• Be selective. Only visit well-lit houses and avoid stopping at dark houses. Remind your children to stay in groups and never accept rides from strangers or enter homes without a parent or guardian.
• Charge your devices. Make sure to charge cell phone and ensure that your flashlight has fresh batteries. Energizer_® MAX® with Power Seal Technology is long-lasting and no leaks guaranteed*. Use your cell phone for necessary communications (and adorable photos), otherwise keep it in a purse or pocket to avoid distractions.

*Or we will replace your device. See www.energizer.com/guarantee.

Because if you can’t have Halloween in the middle of a bright summer evening, you should at least be powering safety on Halloween and rocking the badass LED headlight. They’d be awesome for camping, too.

This post was sponsored by Energizer, but the driving need I have to own one of those headlights is entirely my own.

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