The Brooksville Signal Halloween Special
As Halloween night approaches, families across Hernando County are gearing up for a fun-filled evening of costumes, candy, and community. At The Brooksville Signal, we’re committed to helping everyone — from the littlest ghouls and goblins to teens and parents — enjoy a safe and spirited evening. Below are thoughtful, practical tips to keep in mind as you roam Brooksville and beyond.
🎃 Before You Head Out
- Plan your route: Stick to well-lit neighborhoods you’re familiar with. Older kids should trick-or-treat only at homes with porch lights on and in groups.
- Check costume safety: Choose costumes and accessories that are flame-resistant, short enough to prevent tripping, and ideally include reflective elements or bright colors so you’re visible to drivers.
- Prep the kids (and adults!): Make sure children know their home address, a contact number, how to use 911 if needed, and simple phrases like “No, thank you” when dealing with strangers or unexpected offers.
👣 While Trick-or-Treating
- Stick to sidewalks and paths: Walk on sidewalks when available; if not, face traffic and stay as far left as possible. Always look left-right-left and maintain eye contact with drivers before crossing.
- Be visible: Use glow sticks or flashlights, especially once it gets dark. Make sure masks or headgear don’t block vision or hearing.
- Go in groups and stay together: Young children should be accompanied by an adult. Older kids should travel with friends, stay in familiar neighborhoods, and avoid detours through alleys, parks or back yards.
- Candy check! Before indulging, have a parent or guardian inspect all treats. Only accept candy from trusted homes (those with lights on!) and avoid any unwrapped or suspicious items.
🚗 For Motorists and Neighbors
- Drivers: Slow down and be extra alert for kids who may unexpectedly dash into the road. Costumes may impair kids’ peripheral vision or hearing.
- Homefront safety: If you’re handing out candy, keep your porch well-lit, clear any trip hazards (like hoses or toys), and restrain pets so they don’t spook arriving children. Keep doors locked even if you’re just at the front handing out treats.
- Create a safe place: Consider offering grab-and-go treat bags instead of loose candies, especially if you’re handing out many at once. It helps minimize contact and uncertain items.
💡 A Note on Community and Inclusivity
At The Brooksville Signal, we believe Halloween is more than just candy collection — it’s a time to bring together families, neighbors, and friends across Hernando County in a shared moment of joy. Encourage inclusive costumes, kind interactions, and safe celebrations that let everyone feel welcome and secure.
✅ Final Reminders
- Lights on = open for trick-or-treating. Lights off = maybe waiting until next year.
- A flashlight or glow stick is just as important as the candy bag.
- Costume + reflective tape = safer.
- Eyes up, phones down when crossing streets.
- Inspect & supervise candy before allowing the haul.
- Be aware of law-enforcement signage for those who shouldn’t be in contact with children. Avoid these houses.
From all of us at The Brooksville Signal: Have a fun, safe, and spooktacular Halloween! May your costumes scare (but not startle traffic), your neighbors greet you kindly, and your treat bag overflow with joy.
Stay safe, Hernando County — and happy hauntings! 🎃👻
The Brooksville Signal Home 
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