Trick-or-treating tips for a safe Halloween

As children and parents get ready to head out trick-or-treating this Halloween, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has released some tips to keep everyone safe.

Tips for Driver

• Slow down and watch for children!
• Don’t let anything distract you from the task of driving. Drive like you are going through a community safety zone in front of a school. A child could dart out at any time.

Tips for Children

• See and be seen!
• Bright clothing, reflective tape and a flashlight or glow sticks to help light you up and light your way.
• Walk, don’t run!
• Plan your route in neighbourhoods you know and don’t approach homes that are in darkness. Use sidewalks; don’t cut across yards or driveways and walk, single file, facing traffic at the edge of the roadway when sidewalks aren’t available.
• Don’t eat on the go!
• Wait until you get home and have a look at your treats with your parents before you start to eat them.

Tips for Parents

• Feed your children their favourite meal that night and give them seconds!
• Children won’t be as tempted to dig into their treats and eat them before they get home. Although tampering is rare, an inspection with your assistance is wise.
• Do you know where your children are?
• Insist older children provide a route and timeline with an agreed upon finish time. A cell phone is an added bonus.
• If you go along they’ll probably share some candy with you!
• Very young children should always be accompanied by an adult. Aunts, uncles, grandparents or trustworthy friends can step in if you can’t make it.

Tips for Homeowners

• Your dog won’t like trick or treaters! Even normally friendly dogs can get a little testy with unidentified children taking things away from their house. Best to keep them away from the door or other paths the children might use.
• Turn the lights on!
• Although lights seem to ruin the ambiance on this night, a little light can go a long way to keep children from tumbling off the front porch or having other potentially dangerous mishaps on your property.
• Tidy up just a little!
• Car ramps, flower pots, hoses, wheel rims, and lawn mowers represent a hazard to children as they move from home to home. Take a few minutes to remove potential hazards.
• If you use real candles, keep them clear of the trick-or-treaters!
• If you insist on using candles instead of bulbs don’t forget the fire hazard and especially remember to keep them distant from the children.