Halloween is just around the corner, and while it's always a very exciting time for kids and families, it also poses safety risks that the OPP would like everyone to be aware of.
Constable Craig Soldan says when it comes to trick-or-treaters, there are some safety tips to keep in mind.
"Make sure that your costumes are fitting properly so you're not tripping over something that's too long. Make sure you've got good visibility, you can see out of the eyeholes you maybe have cut in your costume or your mask. If you have a little flashlight or some reflective tape, maybe even a glow-stick, bring that so you're a little more visible to others," said Soldan.
Soldan says many parents put reflective tape on the candy bucket for some added visibility. When it comes to parents of excited trick-or-treaters, Soldan adds there are some safety tips to keep in mind.
"When you come home, have your parents go over the candy to make sure it's safe to eat, especially stuff that might be homemade, or apples, stuff like that. We just wanna make sure that everything is safe to be consumed, so have your parents check the candy over before you eat it," added Soldan.
Trick-or-treaters should also be sticking to sidewalks as much as possible, and not running across roadways or properties. For homeowners that are inviting trick-or-treaters, there are safety measures to take.
"Another thing for homeowners, please make sure you pick up any hazards on your property, things that can be tripped on or any sharp objects that may be out there, so it's safe for kids to travel on your property. And then obviously, for trick-or-treaters, if you don't see lights on at a home, you might just wanna pass that one by as they might not be participating in Halloween," Soldan noted.
Motorists obviously play a key role in Halloween safety, and Soldan warns that using your vehicle to trick-or-treat can be dangerous.
"If you have an opportunity to park your vehicle and get out and walk with your kids, that's probably what we would recommend versus driving to every driveway. That can get pretty congested in neighbourhoods, and we just don't wanna see any collisions with pedestrians, so just if you are driving, be patient and extra cautious with eyes on the road," Soldan concluded.
The OPP and other local police detachments will be heavily patrolling roadways and urban areas during Halloween. Huron County OPP have released a summary of the safety tips to keep in mind. Those are as follows:
· Be Safe, Be Seen! Wear a reflective band, glow stick, use a flashlight and add reflective tape to your treat bag and costume.
· Small children should not go out alone. Try to go out when it is light out and young children should always be with a responsible adult.
· For the older ones, plan your route before you leave your house and ensure your parents know where you are going. Take a cell phone with you.
· Only go to homes that are well lit. If the home is in darkness, pass by it.
· Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic. It's unsafe to cross between parked cars and other obstacles. Do one side of the street before moving over to the other.
· Always look both ways for traffic before crossing the street.
· Avoid eating unwrapped candy and homemade treats from strangers. Parents should check the goodies before kids dig in.
· Homeowners participating in Halloween trick-or-treating should make sure their home is well lit. Pick up any obstructions such as garden hoses, bicycles, tools or other obstructions that pose a hazard.
· If you see suspicious activity or a crime in progress, please contact police.
