Is trick-or-treating in KC dangerous? Here are tips for staying safe
One national study says you should be cautious this Halloween if you are planning to go trick-or-treating around the neighborhood or passing out candy to trick-or-treaters decked out in costumes in the Kansas City area.
The Action Network, a sports betting and data analysis website, reviewed information from sources like the FBI’s uniform crime reports, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s fatality analysis reporting system and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s climate normals to find the United States’ most dangerous cities for trick-or-treating.
In its analysis, it says that Kansas City is the fifth-most dangerous city for trick-or-treating. The city’s implied risk and incident rating is 32%, based on data The Action Network found about the 50 most populated cities according to the U.S. Census.
Kansas City’s statistics show that the area has the second-highest number of pedestrian deaths, with 9.45 pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents recorded, according to NHTSA data 2019–2022.
The data says violent crime happens annually at a rate of 1,047 incidents per 100,000 residents, and property crimes happening at a rate of 3,606 incidents per 100,000 residents, which come from the FBI’s 2024 uniform crime reports.
“Historic neighborhoods fill up fast on Halloween,” the Action Network said. “Perfect for costumes, tricky for street crossings. As lcrowds grow and traffic speeds up, small lapses can turn into big scares.”
The cities that ranked ahead of Kansas City are Memphis, Tennessee; Detroit; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Columbus, Ohio.
Local municipalities and organizations have offered advice on how to stay safe this Halloween. Here’s what guidance and tips they offer.
Halloween safety in Kansas City
Trick-or-treaters and their parents should first be aware of the weather. Temperatures across the metro will range from the 50s into the low 40s and upper 30s Friday night, according to the forecast. Friday’s overnight low is expected to be near 36 degrees.
The sun will set earlier as it gets closer to daylight saving time, meaning you should be cautious walking around at night when visibility is low. Children’s Mercy recommends that young children should always walk with a trusted adult, especially after dark. They also say to cross at crosswalks, use sidewalks and use extra care when crossing streets.
The Johnson County government website says to incorporate reflective elements into costumes. Kids can carry glow sticks, flashlights or wearable LED lights, helping them become more visible to drivers and other trick-or-treaters.
If a costume requires a sword or another weapon as an accessory, make sure it’s soft and flexible to prevent any injuries. Parents should make sure the length of the costume is correct, so kids don’t accidentally step on it and trip.
Nonprofit organization Safe For Kids Worldwide also says you should choose face paint over masks when possible, since masks can limit a child’s vision.
For older kids going out on their own, Children’s Mercy says they should:
- Share their planned route and when they’ll be home
- Carry a cellphone
- Go in a group and stay together
- Only go to houses with porch lights on
For those handing out candy, make sure any decorations are anchored and won’t be in the way of visitors who could trip over them, the city of Overland Park said. Keep the porch lights on, light the walkway to your door and keep your pets away from trick-or-treaters.
