Wellington County OPP wants everyone to have a fun and safe Halloween.
“We need to remind our children about keeping themselves safe and avoiding potentially dangerous situations,” said detachment commander Inspector Scott Lawson.
Police have offered the following tips to stay safe this Halloween.
For parents
Accompany children or ensure they are with a responsible adult.
Costumes should fit properly to prevent trips and falls. Select costumes with bright colours to increase the child’s visibility and add reflective strips.
Provide children with a flashlight and a cell phone if available. Draw a map outlining the route they should follow and set a curfew.
Do not allow children to carry anything that looks like a weapon.
Tell children not to eat anything until they get home.
Start trick or treating early before it gets too dark.
For children/youths
Carry a white bag or pillowcase for candy, or add some reflective tape.
Bring a cell phone just in case an emergency phone call is needed and carry a flashlight
Trick or treat with a friend and visit homes that are well lit; never go inside a stranger’s home.
Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic. Don’t criss-cross back and forth across the street. Never cross between parked cars; always at crosswalks, street corners or intersections.
Don’t eat treats before arriving at home. When home, ask parents to look through the treats with to make sure everything is safe.
Relay locations to parents/guardians and trick or treat in familiar areas.
For homeowners
Turn on outdoor lights and replace burnt-out bulbs.
Remove items from yard or porch that might trip a child.
Sweep wet leaves from steps and sidewalk.
Use an alternative to a candle for the pumpkin, such as a flashlight or battery-operated candle.
If using a candle, never leave it unattended.
For drivers
Drive slowly in residential areas where children are more likely to be trick or treating.
Remember that costumes can limit a child’s vision and they may not be able to see oncoming vehicles.
Reduce distractions and stay alert.
Enter and exit driveways slowly. Proceed with caution.
“Remember that safety is Wellington County OPP’s top priority,” said Lawson.
“If you observe any suspicious activity, please call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.”
