Keeping Families Safe in Westfield: Halloween Safety Tips from Harris County Sheriff's Office
As Halloween approaches on Friday, October 31, families in Westfield are preparing for an evening filled with spooky costumes, jack-o'-lanterns, and the sweet sound of trick-or-treaters knocking at the door. But alongside the fun, local law enforcement wants to ensure that safety remains a top priority — especially with an increase in pedestrian activity, darkened streets, and excited children out and about.
The Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) is reminding residents to enjoy Halloween festivities with care and vigilance. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez is once again sharing the department’s safety message with area families: “Whether you’re trick-or-treating or celebrating at home, here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind,” he said.
Stay Aware and Stick Together
For those heading out to trick-or-treat, HCSO advises families to plan their routes in familiar, well-lit neighborhoods and always accompany children under the age of 12. “Ensure costumes are visible and safe — use reflective tape or glow sticks, and avoid costumes that restrict vision or movement,” Gonzalez advised.
Tips for Trick-or-Treaters
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Always use sidewalks and crosswalks.
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Look both ways before crossing streets.
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Never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.
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Carry a flashlight or glow stick to stay visible to drivers.
Be Alert Behind the Wheel
According to safety experts from Safe Kids Worldwide, children are twice as likely to be struck and killed by a car on Halloween than any other day of the year. Drivers should be extra vigilant from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., when most trick-or-treating takes place.
Safe Kids also recommends drivers slow down in residential neighborhoods, take extra time at intersections, and eliminate distractions like phones or food while driving. “Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways,” their report notes.
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Homeowners Play a Role Too
Residents passing out candy should ensure their porch lights are on and pathways are clear of tripping hazards. HCSO also reminds pet owners to keep pets indoors or secured to prevent any unexpected incidents as costumed visitors come to the door.
Candy and Costume Safety
After trick-or-treating, it’s important for parents to inspect all candy for signs of tampering or unwrapped items. The Sheriff's Office advises families to avoid accepting homemade treats from strangers and to stick to pre-packaged candy from trusted sources.
To reduce potential accidents during Halloween activities, HCSO also encourages families to skip pumpkin carving with young children in favor of painting pumpkins — a safer, creative option for little hands.
Important Reminders from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office
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Check the Texas Department of Public Safety’s online registry before heading out to be aware of any registered offenders in your area.
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Make sure costumes are not too long to avoid tripping hazards.
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Teach children to walk, not run, between houses.
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Report suspicious activity. For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergencies, call 713-221-6000.
As Sheriff Gonzalez reminds families, “Always watch your children, and remind them never to enter a stranger’s home or vehicle.”
From pumpkin patches to porch lights, Halloween in Westfield is a treasured tradition. With just a little extra planning and awareness, it can be a safe and joy-filled night for ghosts, goblins, and families alike. Stay safe, have fun, and don’t forget to snap a few pictures along the way.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
