With Halloween just around the corner, Chilliwack RCMP are reminding parents and their children on ways they can play it safe while trick or treating. Halloween is a fun and exciting tradition that many in our community enjoy, says Const. Ashley St. Germaine, however, it is important to enjoy it safely.
Here are a few simple safety tips to keep Halloween a safe and fun night for everyone:
• Keep the path leading up to your door free of obstacles for the little ones, especially those with masks and limited visions
• Wear a light coloured or bright costume, reflective tape or arm bands to heighten visibility
• Make sure your vision is not restricted
• Accessorize with a flashlight
• “Fake”: swords, knives and guns part of your costume? Make sure they look fake but remember, some people may still not be able to tell the difference.
• Be aware of the route that your children plan to follow
• If you are unable to take them out yourself, consider asking another parent, an older sibling or babysitter to do the honours for you
• Establish an agreed upon curfew
• Stay on the sidewalks (If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left-hand side of the street facing traffic)
• Don’t jaywalk
• Stop and check for cars before crossing the street
• Discuss with your children what they should do to call home in case of emergency
• Stay on the outside: Never enter a house; only accept treats at the front door
• Save your treats: Wait until you get home before sampling your treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should check out all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items
• Expect the unexpected: Slow down, look for pedestrians. The chances of getting into a serious or fatal collision are multiplied when there are lots of kids and teens out on the streets.
Please be aware that in Chilliwack, the use of fireworks is strictly prohibited by law. Fireworks aren’t kids play. Each and every Halloween, an influx of children and adults end up at hospital emergency rooms for firework-associated injuries.
There will be extra RCMP officers patrolling on Halloween night to help keep the festivities safe for everyone. “We want everyone to have fun and enjoy this night, especially the kids,” said Cst. Ashley St. Germaine. “Remember to stay safe, be aware of your surroundings and enjoy this night.” The RCMP would also like to remind motorists to slow down and use extra caution while driving on Halloween night.
