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Have a safe and spooktacular Halloween

27.10.2025

THE Welsh Ambulance Service is encouraging people across Wales to celebrate Halloween safely and responsibly.

Halloween traditionally marks one of the busiest periods for the service and last year, in the period between 31 October to 5 November, the Trust received 7,050 emergency 999 calls along with 14,323 non-emergency calls to NHS 111 Wales.

Sonia Thompson, Assistant Director of Operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “Halloween is an exciting time for many, but it can also be an exceptionally busy time for our teams.

“As we approach Halloween, we are urging everyone to prioritise safety for themselves, their families, and others and to only call 999 in the event of a serious or life-threatening emergency.”

“With some simple precautions, we can all help ensure that this Halloween is both enjoyable and safe.”

To support the public in staying safe this Halloween, the Trust has issued the following advice:
 

  • When dressing up, choose brightly coloured costumes or add reflective materials to increase visibility, particularly when walking near roads.

 

  • knives are sharp, so keep little fingers well away when carving your Halloween pumpkin

 

  • Carry a torch or use your mobile phone to light your way in darker areas.

 

  • Young trick-or-treaters should always be accompanied by a responsible adult.

 

  • Stick to well-lit streets and avoid unfamiliar or poorly lit areas

 

  • Motorists are reminded to exercise additional caution on Halloween night, when more pedestrians, particularly children, are expected to be out and about.

 

  • Please drive carefully, observe speed limits, and remain alert at all times.

 

  • Use battery-operated LED lights instead of candles to illuminate pumpkins and decorations, reducing the risk of fire and injury.

 

  • Choose face paint rather than masks to improve visibility and comfort wherever possible. However, some face paints are toxic and can cause allergic reactions. Read the label and try to buy make up or paints that are organic or made with natural ingredients.

 

  • Be considerate of vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly, who may find Halloween activities unsettling.

 

  • For those attending or hosting Halloween gatherings, please drink responsibly.

 

  • Always arrange a designated driver or alternative means of transport if consuming alcohol and consider providing non-alcoholic options for guests.
     

Sonia added: “Please remember that 999 should only be used for serious or life-threatening emergencies.

“For non-urgent medical advice, the NHS 111 Wales website, your GP, or your local pharmacist are available to assist.

“NHS 111 Wales has also introduced a new virtual assistant to help website users get the right health advice, fast.

“By following these simple steps, everyone can enjoy a spooktacular yet safe Halloween.”