Here are some Halloween safety tips for all of the Halifax Regional Municipality's ghosts and goblins.
Halloween Spirit and Safety go Hand-in-Hand
Ghosts and goblins will soon be roaming the streets in search of treats this Halloween. It’s traditionally a spooky time of year, but with a few basic safety precautions it won’t be scary for youngsters, homeowners or motorists.
It’s an exciting time for children who get to wear costumes while gathering goodies. Halifax District RCMP and Halifax Regional Police offer these tips for parents and kids to make the Halloween experience safe and fun for everyone:
Go trick-or-treating with a parent or responsible adult. Older children should go with friends and their parents should be aware of the route being taken. Avoid going alone.
Carry a flashlight. Make sure you can see and be seen in the dark. Non-toxic glow sticks are a good idea and can be added to costumes.
Never go inside a strange residence or car.
Make sure costumes are light in colour and/or reflective.
Make-up is better than a face mask as masks with small eye holes make it difficult to see. If you wear a mask, make sure it allows you to see and breathe properly.
Avoid wearing costumes that may cause you to trip. Make sure you can walk up and down stairs comfortably.
While trick-or-treating, go down one side of the street first, then the other. Avoid criss-crossing the street and only cross the street at crosswalks or intersections. If the crosswalk is equipped with flashing lights, activate the walk signal and wait for traffic to come to a complete stop before crossing. Remember to look both ways.
Stay in well-lit areas and avoid taking shortcuts through alleys, fields or parks.
Accept only commercially wrapped candy, and have an adult check your treats before you dig in.
Homeowners can also follow a few basic tips to make visiting goblins feel safe:
Keep porch lights or external security lights on.
Keep doors clear and accessible. Avoid decorating entrances with flammable material. Decorations shouldn’t pose a tripping hazard to visitors.
Don’t invite children inside your home.
Only give out commercially wrapped candy and snacks.
Call police immediately if you spot suspicious activity.
Keep Fido and Fluffy indoors.
Motorists can do their part this Halloween by driving slowly and cautiously while keeping an eye out for trick-or-treaters.
Halifax Regional Police and Halifax District RCMP encourage parents and teachers to talk about trick-or-treating safety with children. Here’s to a safe and enjoyable Halloween!
