For young children Halloween is one of the most exciting days in the year. Costumes are selected, friends arranged and neighbourhoods often picked out well in advance.
As they go about their trick or treating, basic safety tips are often overlooked.
Here are a few tips from the RCMP to keep youngsters safe.
Children:
• Halloween is more fun when shared with friends, never go alone.
• Can you see? Are you being seen?
Wear reflective, bright coloured costumes and avoid masks that restrict your vision
• Only trick or treat at houses with lights turned on
• Never eat treats until an adult has inspected them
• Don’t criss-cross streets or run out from between parked vehicles
• Walk on sides of roads or sidewalks and when approaching homes, be respectful by not cutting across lawns
Motorists:
• Slow, slow, slow, expect kids to pop out at any time
• Be prepared to react and stay alert
Homeowners:
• If you are participating in Halloween, keep your lights on and porch or walkway clear of debris and potential items easily tripped on.
• Also — Remember that with all the extra noise in neighbourhoods as children hustle from house to house pets may also suffer anxiety on Halloween and should be kept indoors or in their kennels where they feel safe and secure.