The South Simcoe Police Service says it wants to ensure your Halloween is safe and fun by offering the following safety tips for trick-or-treaters and their families.
First off, drivers are encouraged to use extra caution and keep a watchful eye for little ghosts and goblins, the police service said in a news release.
Before trick-or-treating:
- Plan costumes that are easy to walk in and highly visible
- Add reflective tape to costumes and carry a flashlight if possible
- Make sure a mask does not restrict a child’s vision or use face paint as an alternative
- Plan your route and choose streets that are well-lit and that children know well
- Children should be accompanied by a parent, caregiver, older sibling or group
During trick-or-treating:
- Travel in a group and hold on to treat bags tightly
- Only stop at houses with well-lit porches and travel in a familiar neighbourhood
- Cross the street only at corners. Never cross between parked cars or the middle of the block
- Walk on well-lit streets and stay on the sidewalk
- Watch out for candles in pumpkins that are a fire hazard
- Never go into the home or car of a stranger
After trick-or-treating, parents should sort and examine all treats before letting the kids dig into them, police said.
"Throw away candy or food that is not wrapped and sealed by a candy or food company. Carefully check all wrappers for signs of tampering. If any harmful items are found, notify police immediately," police said.
Police also offered this reminder for adults: if you are attending a Halloween party, plan a safe, sober ride home.
