Halloween Smartphone Safety Tips

It’s getting to that time of the month when glowing pumpkins adorn porch steps, skeletons dance at night and spider webs cling to everything. Halloween can be one of the most fun times of the year for your little ones, and one of the most stressful for worried parents. There are some safety things that everyone knows–like wearing something reflective, going together in groups and staying in well-lit areas. But with the prevalence of smartphones and technology, there are plenty of things you can do to help your kids stay safe. So, here are a collection of smartphone apps for parents of trick or treating kids this Halloween!

1. Trick or Tracker – This app is probably one of the best Halloween apps, designed specifically for keeping tabs on kids trick or treating. With a parent and child version, this app allows kids to check in with parents through the app and helps relieve parent worry without making kids feel like they aren’t trusted. Definitely worth checking out.
2. Get a free Flashlight app – Flashlight apps are extremely useful and generally free. Just be careful when choosing one, as many have shady permissions designed to collect information. A good one for Android is Tiny Flashlight + LED.
3. RedPanic Button app – There are several different versions of this app available, all of which allow you to program a number. When the red button is hit in case of emergency, the programmed numbers will receive a call or text message displaying GPS coordinates and other information. Something like this would be excellent in case of emergencies.
4. Realtime Tracking app – Life 360 is one of several family tracking apps that can be used to keep an eye on your child so you know where they are on Halloween. You can set destinations and track where they go. The app isn’t as accurate as something like a GPS unit, because it relies on phone connections, but it is definitely better than nothing.

Parents might also consider creating some sort of parent texting network where you can get updates or emails about kids as they pass through. Another good idea is to check the sex offender registry either online or via an app before you send your kids out. Do you have any other apps or safety tips you would recommend to parents? Let us know in the comments!  ]]>