With kids and families gearing up for Halloween trick-or-treating, Kimberley RCMP Staff Sgt. Steeve Woodcox says they should keep safety in mind.
Woodcox says trick-or-treats should do their best to be visible in the darkness.
“It gets darker earlier in the day at this time of year, so it’s important to have something on you that is reflective,” said Woodcox.
“Reflective tape, brightly-coloured costumes, glow-sticks or something that would increase your visibility at night. That way vehicles can see you more easily.”
Woodcox says families and kids should keep several other safety measures in mind.
“Children should be with an adult or a group of friends. It’s getting colder, so kids also should dress for the conditions,” said Woodcox.
“You should cross the road at marked crosswalks and use pathways and sidewalks. We don’t want children not using crosswalks and crossing the street between parked vehicles.”
If children are going out trick-or-treating with their friends, their parents should know where they are going.
Visiting a house is also on the list of safety considerations.
“Only visit well-lit homes and never enter a house to receive the treats. Kids should also make sure to have their treats inspected by an adult before they eat them,” said Woodcox.
Drivers also need to be extra cautious on Halloween night.
“People should slow down and treat some areas like school zones. These kids are going to be out all over the place and they’re excited, so they may not be thinking correctly and they dart out in front of vehicles,” said Woodcox.
“If you slow down, you’ll have more time to react in case a kid runs out onto the road.”
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