Trick-or-treating safety urged

The Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP is gearing up for Halloween

Ghosts, goblins, witches, super heroes, bats and cats will be out prowling the streets tonight.

So will the local police department.

The Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP is gearing up for Halloween.

“We will have a full complement of officers,  auxiliaries as well as Citizens on Patrol on again this year,” said RCMP spokesperson Gord Molendyk.

The RCMP want everyone to have a safe Halloween.

Tips include:

n Costumes should be light-coloured or bright, and have reflective tape or arm bands;

n Bring a flashlight;

n Walk instead of run;

n Do not walk between cars or jaywalk, walk on sidewalks or, if there isn’t a sidewalk, walk on the left-side of the street facing traffic;

n Do not cut across lawns or take short-cuts;

n Take masks off when walking from one house to the next;

n Do not go inside houses and do not get into vehicles;

n Only visit houses that are lit;

n Stay away from animals you’re not familiar with;

n Vandalism is not just a ‘trick.’ It’s against the law and has consequences.

After collecting the candy, remind children that they must have the treats inspected by their parents or guardian prior to eating them.

Fireworks will be a big part of tonight’s festivities throughout the North Okanagan, which means animals could be more excited than usual.

“Keeping pets indoors on Halloween protects them from hazards and it protects trick-or-treaters as well,” said Molendyk.

 

Vernon Morning Star