MSHP offers Halloween safety reminders

Published 10:53 pm Thursday, October 29, 2026

Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to have a safe Halloween.

It’s that time of year when young ghosts, vampires, and goblins are out for their night of trick-or-treating on Halloween night. It’s imperative that drivers and pedestrians stay alert.

During this exciting time, children could dart in front of a vehicle. Slow down and drive with extra caution. Expect an increase in the number of slow-moving vehicles in neighborhoods as motorists pick up and drop off trick-or-treaters. Please be courteous to other drivers and stay alert for trick-or-treaters.

Parents, please remind children of safe trick-or-treating practices: approach only familiar houses that are well-lit, don’t enter strangers’ houses or vehicles, and look both ways before crossing the street. Consider trick-or-treating with your children for their safety.

Give some thought to safety when choosing a costume. Consider using make-up rather than wearing a mask, which can obstruct a child’s vision, or wearing light-colored costumes/adding reflective tape to dark costumes will help drivers see your child. An adult should always accompany small children, and older children should stay in groups while out during Halloween festivities.

Halloween isn’t just for children. Many adults enjoy dressing up and visiting haunted houses or attending gatherings. If you attend a Halloween party that includes intoxicants, designate a sober driver for the trip home or use a rideshare app.

Have a safe, happy Halloween.

Release courtesy of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.