Halloween night: what would foot doctors like us at Podiatry Center of New Jersey have to fret? Well, our website is orange for a reason, and navigating dark streets and cluttered doorsteps in costumes creates one of the year’s biggest fall hazards. For children and all parents reading, a fall can quickly turn a fun night into a painful trip to the podiatrist. Instead, take these simple, proactive steps to ensure your Halloween is filled with treats, not trauma.

Your 10-Point Safety Checklist for a Stable Night

  1. Forgo Costume Footwear: If it won’t ruin the creative idea you’ve had, try avoiding the flimsy, oversized boots, high heels, or floppy plastic shoes that come with costumes. They offer zero support for arch problems, neuromas, arthritis, or any inflammation – oh, and they are major tripping hazards.
  2. Hem the Costume: Long, dragging hemlines are the most common cause of trips and falls. Pin or hem up all costumes so they clear the ground by a couple of inches. This prevents you or your child from accidentally stepping on their own fabric.
  3. Carry a Flashlight (or Two): Darkness and shadows make it impossible to see curbs, steps, and leaves. Carry a bright flashlight or use a headlamp to illuminate the path directly in front of your feet.
  4. Use Both Hands—Not the Bag: If you are an adult, keep one hand free to use railings or to guide your child. Encourage children to hold their treat bags with one hand while keeping the other free for balance or holding a light source.
  5. Avoid Masks That Block Vision: A mask that slides down or blocks peripheral vision is a major safety risk, as you can’t see hazards on the ground. Adults with neuropathy especially need all the sight they can get.
  6. Slow Down on Steps and Curbs: Your kids will want to rush up to the porch steps and get their candy. But, encourage your trick-or-treater to approach steps slowly and take them one at a time.
  7. Are There Hills?: Plan your trick-or-treating route along familiar streets that have good sidewalks and lighting. You won’t want to sprain an ankle or flare up an old Achilles injury because you forgot that there’s a challenging trail ahead.
  8. Don’t Carry Large Props: Oversized props (like long fishing rods or massive cardboard swords) can obstruct vision, tangle in feet, or interfere with balance. Keep props small and manageable, or leave them at home.
  9. Check All Laces and Straps: Before you leave the house, make sure all shoelaces are securely double-knotted and that any shoe straps or ankle supports are properly fastened.
  10. Wear Compression Socks (Adults): If you are an adult accompanying children, consider wearing compression socks. They help reduce foot and ankle swelling from prolonged standing and walking.

If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.