OPP's Halloween safety tips
The Ontario Provincial Police has released its list of Halloween safety tips.
- Walk;; do not run from door to door.
- Use sidewalks and cross walks or cross at corners and well lit areas. It is not safe to cut across lawns as there may be objects on the grass that you could trip over.
- Adults should accompany children at all times. Small children should trick or treat when it is still daylight if possible.
- Older children should stay in groups, plan a route and stick with it. Only include neighbourhoods that you know.
- Let your family know what route you intend to use and agree on a time to be home so they can go out to look for you if you do not return on time.
- Only go to lit homes and never go into a house or apartment even if you are invited.
- Don’t talk to strangers or get into vehicles while out trick or treating.
- Always check your treats before you eat them. Look for packaging that has been tampered with, or is loose or torn. If you are suspicious, throw them away. Homemade popcorn balls, cookies and candy apples are nice and usually well intended by the giver but they can be dangerous. Dispose of them as well unless you know and trust who gave them to you.
- Drivers should slow down and watch for children. Children get excited and may forget to look before they run out onto the roadways.
- Don’t drive distracted. Keep your eyes on the roadway and your mind on driving.
- Don’t drink and drive. Use a designated driver, take a taxi or use public transit.
