Ghost and Goblin Alert Are You Ready?

(Bruce Peninsula, ON.) Most parents with younger children are well aware that we are on the eve of Halloween. Others will be quickly reminded as the trick or treaters start appearing at their doors. In any case, whether out with your child, at home, or on the road looking after business, Bruce Peninsula O.P.P. wants to pass on some safety tips that should be helpful to all.

For Children,

See and be seen! Bright clothing, reflective tape and a flashlight or glow sticks to help light you up and light your way.

Walk, don’t run! Plan your route in neighbourhoods you know and don’t approach homes that are in darkness. Use sidewalks; don’t cut across yards or driveways and walk, single file, facing traffic at the edge of the roadway when sidewalks aren’t available.

Don’t eat on the go! Wait until you get home and have a look at your treats with your parents before you start to eat them.

For Parents,

Feed your children their favourite meal that night and give them seconds! Stuffed children won’t be as tempted to dig into their treats and eat them before they get home. Although tampering is rare, an inspection with your assistance is wise.

Do you know where your children are? Insist older children provide a route and timeline with an agreed upon finish time. A cell phone is an added bonus.

If you go along they’ll probably share some candy with you! Very young children should always be accompanied by an adult. Aunts, uncles, grandparents or trustworthy friends can step in if you can’t make it.

For Homeowners,

Trust me; your dog won’t like trick or treaters! Even normally friendly dogs can get a little testy with unidentified goblins taking things away from their house. Best to keep them away from the door or other paths the children might use.

Turn the lights on! Although lights seem to ruin the ambiance on such a ghoulish night, a little light can go along way to keep children from tumbling off the front porch or having other potentially dangerous mishaps on your property.

Tidy up just a little! Car ramps, flower pots, hoses, wheel rims, lawn mowers and the like represent a hazard to children as they move from home to home. Take a few minutes to remove potential hazards.

If you use real candles, keep them clear of the trick or treaters! If you insist on using candles instead of bulbs don’t forget the fire hazard and especially remember to keep them distant from the children.

Motorists,

Slow down and watch for children! Don’t let anything distract you from the task of driving. Drive like you are going through a community safety zone in front of a school. A child could dart out at any time.

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