AUSTIN, Texas — As Halloween approaches, Austin police are implementing detailed safety plans for downtown and the rest of the city, with a particular focus on Sixth Street. Officers are also issuing reminders for parents who will be trick-or-treating with their children in neighborhoods.
“Being that Halloween’s kind of falling on the weekend makes it even better, I think, for everyone,” said Mark Cross, a resident of a North Austin neighborhood. He added that the area is family-oriented and safe, promising a “festive” weekend.
At Austin Police headquarters, officers are emphasizing typical safety rules. Cpl. Jose Mendez advised, “Inspect all treats before allowing your children to eat them,” and urged parents to ensure costumes, shoes, and treat bags are safe. He also recommended knowing the trick-or-treaters’ route and accompanying young children.
Traffic is also a concern.
The American Red Cross reports that children aged four to eight are 10 times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other evening. Cmdr. Carey Chaudoir of the Austin Police Department reminded drivers, “If you’re driving, motorcycles, cycles, even bicycles, just keep in mind all of the little ones that are out there trick-or-treating, trying to have a good time.”
The Texas Department of Transportation recorded 468 pedestrian-involved crashes in Austin in 2024, with October seeing the highest number. Antonio Lujan, a spokesperson for TXDOT, urged vigilance, especially with the upcoming time change.
Police recommend using sidewalks and obeying crosswalk signals. Cross noted that his neighborhood is “well-lit, and they do have speed humps on the street, so that does slow cars down, so that makes it even safer.”
Both TXDOT and police advise carrying a flashlight and wearing reflective gear while trick-or-treating to increase visibility.