Halloween is a busy time of the year for families, with children anxiously grabbing their costumes to collect candy with their family and friends. Amidst all the fun and excitement, parents are likely to be more focused on something else: safety.

With modern smartphones, safety tools are more accessible than ever. Built-in flashlights, quick access to emergency contacts, and real-time location sharing are just a few of the features that help parents and older children stay connected while trick-or-treating.

“Parents want to ensure their kids are safe, whether they’re trick-or-treating close to home or exploring new neighborhoods,” said Haskell Vinson, area sales and operations for UScellular in western North Carolina. “Smartphone technology offers peace of mind through real-time tracking, apps and other tools that make Halloween both fun and safe.”

UScellular provides the following tech tips to keep your Halloween safe:

·        Planning in Advance. Apps like Nextdoor are perfect for planning the best trick-or-treat spots. The Halloween Treat Map allows residents to mark homes where candy will be handed out or which homes have the best decorations, making it easier to plan your night.

·        Set Clear Expectations. Before heading out, use navigation apps like Google Maps to set boundaries and map out safe routes. Parents can also establish rules about where kids can go, so everyone is on the same page.

·        Capture the Moment. Don’t forget to snap photos of your kids in costume before heading out. Not only does this create lasting memories, but it also be used in case they become separated from your group.

·        Consider Location Tracking. For younger children without smartphones, accessories like Apple AirTags and Samsung SmartTag2 offer a reliable and affordable solution and can be easily stored in their trick-or-treat buckets. Parents can track their child's location, giving kids a bit of independence while providing a sense of security and comfort.