Tips for a Safe Trick-or-Treat Night 2026

Published on October 05, 2026

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AMES, Iowa – Keep an eye out for an assortment of ghosts, goblins, and other creatures running about in Ames for Halloween. The annual Trick-or-Treat night will be celebrated on Friday, Oct. 30, with suggested hours from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For the safety of everyone participating, the Ames Police Department offers these tips and suggestions:

For Children:

  • Travel with a parent/guardian or a responsible adult
  • Travel only in familiar areas
  • Inspect treats at home before eating them
  • Use flashlights, glow sticks, or other reflective materials while walking after dark
  • Remove masks and other vision obstructions prior to crossing roadways
  • Ensure costume accessories, such as swords, are soft and flexible

For Drivers:

  • Slow down in residential areas
  • Obey all traffic signs and signals
  • Pay extra attention at crosswalks and intersections
  • Pick a safe location and turn on hazard lights when picking up/dropping off children
  • Consider turning on vehicle headlights prior to dusk

For Everyone:

  • Talk openly about safety and the expectations for the night
  • Carry a cell phone; make sure it’s charged 
  • Never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle
  • Don’t trick-or-treat alone
  • Remove all hazards from steps, porches, and sidewalks
  • Keep candles away from combustible materials
  • Report suspicious behavior to the Ames Police Department at 515.239.5133

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