(HURON COUNTY, ON) - With a less than favourable weather forecast predicted for Halloween, trick or treaters and motorists will have to take extra steps to stay dry and more importantly stay safe. The Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Detachment is serving up the following safety tips for a safe Halloween.
Halloween is a favourite tradition, however with all the added excitement and distractions of candy and costumes, safety rules are sometimes forgotten. As such Huron OPP would like to pass on the following safety tips to children, parents and motorists.
Be Safe, Be Seen! Wear a reflective band, glow stick, use a flashlight and add reflective tape to your treat bag and costume.
Small children should not go out alone. Try to go out when it is daylight out and in a group. After dark, young children should always be with a responsible adult or older sibling.
For the older ones, plan your route before you leave your house and ensure your parents know where you are going. Take a cell phone with you.
Only go to homes that are well lit. If the home is in darkness pass it by and NEVER go inside a stranger's home.
Walk on the sidewalk whenever it is possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic. It's unsafe to cross between parked cars and other obstacles. Do one side of the street before moving over to the other.
Avoid eating unwrapped candy and homemade treats from strangers. Although tampering is rare, an inspection is wise.
Home owners should make sure their home is well lit. Pick up any obstructions such as garden hoses, bicycles, tools or other obstructions that pose a hazard.
Even friendly dogs can get a little testy with unidentified children taking things away from their house. Best to keep them away from the door or other paths the children might use.
If you see suspicious activity or a crime in progress please contact police.
Motorists need to drive slow and be alert at all times, especially in built up areas where children will be. During the excitement of trick or treating, children may dart out in front of traffic.
Drivers should also be very careful when entering and exiting driveways. It's going to be dark, wet and windy so drive accordingly.
Huron OPP will be providing highly visible patrols throughout Huron County towns and villages in an effort to keep things safe on Halloween night. Have fun but don't forget about your safety.