Halloween is almost here and trick-or-treaters are urged to be safe.
The City of Vernon’s community safety and policing office has a few safety reminders to make it a night of treats, where the biggest risk is a stomachache from too much candy.
“Motorists, slow down Halloween night and watch out for excited trick-or-treaters that might not be paying full attention to the road,” said Tanya Lang Gahr, city communications officer.
Trick-or-treaters should use face paint or make-up so they can see.
If you are wearing a mask, make sure that the eye openings are big so you can see, and when you are walking, push your mask up on your head.
Make sure your costume is flame-resistant and not so long that you could trip.
Wear bright colours. If your costume is dark, add reflective tape, a flashing reflector or something else so you can be seen.
Make sure you have a flashlight or glowsticks so you can see and be seen.
Eat before you trick-or-treat so you don’t get hungry.
Plan your route before you leave.
Only go to houses with a light on.
“Never go into a stranger’s house or car for a treat,” said Laing Gahr.
“Stop at the curb, look left, right and left again and listen for oncoming traffic.”
Always cross at crosswalks, street corners or intersections. It’s unsafe to cross between parked cars or other obstacles.
Stay on the sidewalk when walking from house to house, and if there is no sidewalk, walk beside the road, facing traffic so drivers can see you.
Obey all traffic signs.
Carry a phone and/or a watch with you.
Trick-or-treat with an adult or as a group. Stick together for the whole evening out.
Never eat any candy until it has been checked by an adult.