As Halloween quickly approaches, members of the Huntsville OPP would like to remind everyone that Halloween can be a time of fun and potential danger and want everyone to practice safety precautions to make the evening a memorable one.
Here are some tips from the OPP for a safe and fun Halloween:
For Parents:
- Start trick-or-treating early before it gets too dark.
- Use face paint instead of masks on your children. Masks make it hard for children to see what is around them, including cars.
- Wear short costumes and comfortable shoes. Costumes should fit properly to prevent trips and falls. Select costumes with bright colours and add on reflective material if possible.
- Children under 10 years old should be accompanied by an adult. By the age of 10, some children are ready to go trick-or-treating with a group of friends.
- Provide your child with a flashlight. A cell phone is a good idea if you have one.
- Tell your children not to eat anything until they get home.
- Draw a map outlining the route they follow and set a curfew.
- Let your children draw the faces on pumpkins with a marker and leave the carving to the adults.
For Children and Youth:
- Carry a white bag or pillowcase for your candy or add some reflective tape.
- Bring a cell phone in case you need to make an emergency phone call.
- Never go out trick-or-treating alone. Travel in groups, be sure there are at least three of you at all times.
- Go only to homes that are well lit. Never go inside a stranger’s house or car.
- Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic.
- Follow the rules of the road and remember to STOP, LOOK and LISTEN before you cross the street. Do not “criss-cross” the street, Never cross between parked cars, always cross at crosswalks, street corners or intersections.
- Do not eat your treats before you get home. When home ask an adult to look through your treats with you to make sure everything is okay.
For Homeowners:
- Turn on outdoor lights and replace burnt-out bulbs.
- Remove items from your yard or porch that might trip a child.
- Sweep wet leaves from your steps and sidewalk.
- Use alternatives to candles in your pumpkins such as a flashlight or battery operated candle. If you do use a candle, never leave it unattended.
For Drivers:
- Drive slowly in residential areas where children are more likely to be trick-or-treating.
- Watch out for children, many of whom may be wearing costumes with masks that make it difficult for them to see. Children are excited, and they may dart out in traffic.
- Remember that costumes can limit a child’s vision and they may not be able to see your vehicle.
- Remember to enter and exit driveways slowly and carefully. Proceed with caution.
- Never drive under the influence of ALCOHOL or DRUGS!
For Everyone:
Remember that safety is everyone’s priority. If you observe suspicious activity, call 1-888-310-1122. The Huntsville OPP would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Halloween!
