Kansas City, MO — A new study has ranked Kansas City as one of the five most dangerous cities in the United States for trick-or-treating this year. The report raises concerns not only about violent crime but also about pedestrian safety during Halloween festivities.
According to data reviewed by the Action Network, researchers analyzed FBI crime reports, sex offender registries, and traffic fatality data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to determine which cities posed the greatest risk to children on Halloween night.
Kansas City’s Ranking and Safety Risks
The study found that Kansas City Metro had the second-highest number of pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents, trailing only Columbus, Ohio. This combination of violent crime and poor pedestrian safety contributed to its high-risk ranking.
“I know last week we had three people hit on bicycles — it’s dangerous out there for adults, teenagers, and especially it can be dangerous for small kids,” said Don Maxwell, President of the Prospect Business Association.
As reported by FOX4KC, local organizations are taking proactive steps to protect families and children this Halloween.
Community Events Offering Safer Alternatives
For the second consecutive year, the Prospect Business Association is urging families to skip traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating and instead attend a community trunk-or-treat event.
Last year’s event drew over 2,000 children, and organizers have prepared for an even larger turnout this year — planning enough candy for 3,000 kids. The event includes added lighting, collaboration with the Kansas City Police Department, and street closures along Linwood Boulevard between Prospect and Brooklyn for a secure environment.
“Everyone came up, opened their trunks and it was fantastic. The kids had a great time, it was a safe environment,” Maxwell said.
The trunk-or-treat will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Halloween night.
Another family-friendly event, Scare-It Halloween, will also take place on October 31 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This long-running event celebrates its 30th year by blocking off six blocks of Gladstone Boulevard in front of The Museum of Kansas City, creating a car-free zone where children can safely enjoy the night.
Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters
For families who still plan to go door-to-door in neighborhoods, the Housing Authority of Kansas City is offering a list of safety tips to help keep children visible and alert during the evening:
- Carry glow sticks or flashlights to stay visible to drivers.
- Use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and candy bags.
- Cross only at crosswalks and avoid darting between parked cars.
- Drivers should stay alert — trick-or-treaters may appear suddenly from behind vehicles.
- Opt for face paint instead of masks to improve visibility and breathing for young children.
“A little extra visibility can make all the difference,” safety officials said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday — safely.”
Community Focus on Safety
With thousands of families expected to take part in Halloween festivities across the city, community leaders emphasize planning ahead and prioritizing safety. Events like the Prospect Business Association’s trunk-or-treat and Scare-It Halloween aim to give kids a safe, fun space to celebrate while reducing the risks identified in the study.
What are your thoughts on Kansas City’s Halloween safety concerns? Share your views in the comments below.
