Embracing Technology for a Safer Halloween

As the spooky season approaches, parents everywhere start worrying about their little ghouls and goblins venturing out for trick-or-treating. A recent survey by Verizon, conducted with Morning Consult, sheds light on how technology is reshaping the way parents ensure their children’s safety during this Halloween tradition. Here’s a closer look at the survey’s findings and what they mean for parents this year.

Technology as a Safety Tool

The survey reveals that a notable 78% of parents consider technology a valuable ally in their efforts to keep their kids safe on Halloween. This perspective highlights a growing acceptance of digital tools that enhance safety while allowing children to explore their neighborhoods and enjoy the festive atmosphere. In an age where worries about safety are common, tech provides an added layer of reassurance.

Monitoring Trick-or-Treaters

When it comes to watching over their trick-or-treaters, parents are taking proactive measures. An impressive 90% of parents with children aged 6 and older intend to monitor their kids while they are out. The methods vary, but one trend stands out: the majority are relying on smartphones and other wearable devices. Specifically, 88% of parents plan to utilize phone calls or texts while 75% will employ location-sharing apps. Notably, Latino parents are more likely to engage with these technologies compared to their peers from other backgrounds, tapping into tools that make a significant difference in safety.

The Need for Frequent Check-Ins

In this tech-savvy world, frequent communication has become the new normal among families. Over half (59%) of parents using smartphones to monitor their kids intend to check in multiple times an hour. Alarmingly, a quarter of Black/African American parents report checking in every few minutes via calls or texts, revealing a heightened concern for their children’s immediate safety. This trend demonstrates that many parents are finding comfort in constant connectivity, alleviating the anxiety that often accompanies Halloween festivities.

Prioritizing Location Awareness

Another critical finding from the survey is the emphasis on location tracking. A significant three-quarters of parents (75%) plan to use location-sharing apps to stay informed about their children’s trick-or-treating routes. Additionally, 69% will resort to wearable devices equipped with GPS capabilities. This commitment to knowing where children are at all times reflects an understandable desire for peace of mind while still allowing kids some degree of independence.

The SOS Button: A Parent’s Wish

The survey also highlighted a vital safety feature that many parents crave: an emergency SOS button on their children’s devices. More than a third (35%) expressed a desire for their kids to carry devices capable of summoning help in emergencies. This trend speaks to the universal hope for quick and effective support during uncertain situations, and parents are eager to invest in tools that offer this kind of security.

Verizon’s Solutions for Safer Trick-or-Treating

For parents aiming to blend safety with Halloween fun, Verizon has a suite of products perfectly tailored for the occasion and beyond. The Gizmo Watch 3, designed for kids, allows parents to track their child’s location with real-time GPS. Beyond location tracking, it features an SOS button that alerts emergency contacts at the tap of a finger. Additionally, kids can enjoy video calls with pre-approved contacts, enabling them to maintain a sense of connectivity while out and about.

Verizon also offers the Verizon Family service, which allows parents to manage their children’s screen time, filter content, and monitor device locations directly from their smartphones. This service includes features such as Safe Walk with SOS, which tracks a child’s walk home in real time. It’s a comprehensive solution designed to enhance both digital safety and real-world security, providing parents with peace of mind.

The Survey’s Background

Conducted between October 3-6, 2025, the survey involved 671 U.S. parents with children aged 6 and older who will be trick-or-treating this year or did last year, with oversamples of Black/African American (242) and Latino (209) parents. The interviews were conducted online in both English and Spanish, ensuring a broad understanding of parents’ concerns and preferences.

As Halloween draws near, the intersection of technology and parenthood becomes increasingly evident. With the right tools and knowledge, parents can foster a safe, enjoyable Halloween experience, allowing their little ones to create lasting memories while ensuring their safety.