Hello Friend,

Halloween is upon us. As you plan for spooky costumes and sweet treats, plan for a safe night out for yourself and others—especially if that includes kids. Halloween should be a fun celebration, but ultimately, remember that responsibility starts with each of us. Whether you participate in the tricks and treats of the season or not, always be mindful that kids are watching and be sure to model responsible behaviors.  

If you choose to drink alcohol or will be around others who choose to drink, please consider these tips to have a safe and responsible Halloween: 

Make sure to eat something (other than candy)!  

And if you are hosting a ghoulish gathering, be sure to have food available for guests or ask them to contribute to the spread.  

Stay hydrated!  

Drink plenty of water and non-alcohol beverages in between creepy cocktails (if you’re 21+). Consider offering a zero-proof cocktail for those who choose not to drink or who have offered to be the designated driver. If you are taking kids out trick-or-treating or passing out candy, be aware of open container laws in your area and remember, your kids are watching and learning from your behavior. Make sure to model responsibility.

If you leave home, plan for a safe ride back. And watch out for kids!  

Never drive drunk or impaired by other substances. On the days surrounding Halloween, young ghosts and ghouls may be wandering streets and sidewalks looking for treats, so keep an eye out for pedestrian traffic!  

Know your limits and don’t overdo it!  

Be aware that not all beverages are created equally, and the drink you are enjoying may be more than one standard drink. Any beverage containing alcohol will affect your BAC, so know your limits. Need to learn more? Plan ahead with our Virtual Bar app. 

Talk to your kids.  

Have a conversation with your kids about how to make smart choices. Help them be prepared to make good decisions, whether that is setting a limit on candy intake, staying within neighborhood boundaries, crossing the road carefully, or saying "NO” to peer pressure to drink underage. And never serve or supply alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age.  

Happy Halloween from the Responsibility.org Team