Tips to keep safe this Halloween

This Halloween, have a fa-boo-lous time and keep your ghouls, ghosts and goblins safe by following the below safety tips.

Choose bright-coloured costumes that are highly visible. Adding reflective tape to costumes further increases visibility.
Consider sending your children with a flashlight for additional safety and increased visibility.
When purchasing, or making costumes, look for materials and accessories that are labeled flame-resistant.
All costume accessories – such as sticks, rods, or wands – should be soft and flexible, with no sharp edges.
Consider using hypoallergenic make-up kits instead of masks that may impair breathing or vision.
Be sure costumes are loose enough to be worn over warm clothing, but not so long that they become a tripping hazard. Costumes should not be longer than your child’s ankles.
Ensure your child is wearing adequate footwear that takes into consideration weather conditions and walking.

Remember: all regular pedestrian rules still apply. Be sure to cross the road at marked crosswalks, or well-lit corners only. It is safest to work your way up one side of the street, and then cross once to the other side.
Stay away from houses that are not well lit. Do not accept rides from strangers, or enter any home you feel is unsafe.
Let your parents know where you are going to be at all times (route) and advise them if you will be late returning.
Golf carts, go-carts and electric scooters are not allowed on public roadways, including sidewalks.

Be certain that young trick-or-treaters are accompanied by an adult. Older children should stay in groups.
Pre-determine boundaries to trick-or-treat within and establish a firm time to return home.
Advise children not to eat anything until they return home. Dispose of any items that appear to have been tampered with, or that are not properly wrapped.

Keep your porch lights or external security lights on.
Keep your doors clear and accessible and avoid decorations that are flammable or can pose a tripping hazard.
Don’t invite children inside your home.
Only pass out commercially wrapped candy and snacks.
Keep pets indoors as they may be easily scared by children in costumes.

Try to make eye contact with pedestrians. Masks, costumes and other distractions can diminish a child’s view of the road.
Avoid in-vehicle distractions such as cell phones and loud music.
If you’re planning to party, put the keys away and ensure you have a safe ride home.
Watch your speed in residential areas, especially near playgrounds or schools, which often serve as neighbourhood meeting spots.
Be on the lookout for kids darting out from between parked cars.

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