THUNDER BAY – LIVING – Halloween brings trick or treaters. In many neighbourhoods, scores of excited children will be rushing door-to-door to gather up treats. Keeping those children safe is important. It means drivers tonight have to take extra care.
Trick-or-Treaters should:
- Carry a flashlight and wear reflective pieces, so that you are easily visible to traffic.
- Ensure any masks do not impair your vision or hearing. Consider wearing makeup instead of a mask for better visibility.
- Stay on the sidewalks.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk along the shoulder, or along the property line.
- Stay on one side of the road until you can cross safely at a crosswalk.
- Hold your parent, or identified guardian’s hand and WALK across the crosswalk when it is safe.
- Don’t cut across yards or driveways.
- Use a flashlight so you can see where you are going.
- Travel with a group of friends, if mature enough to be out unsupervised, and stay in familiar neighbourhoods.
- Tell your parents your trick-or-treating route.
- Dress warm enough for the weather.
- Attend houses that are well lit outside, as this usually identifies participation in the Halloween holiday.
- Never enter a stranger’s house or vehicle.
- Have all candy checked by an adult if you have any allergies.
- Have an adult check the candy to confirm it is from a reputable candy brand name company, and that it has not been tampered with.
Homeowners should:
- Ensure your house is well lit.
- Keep pets indoors, and away from trick-or treaters.
- Keep walkways obstacle free.
- Report any suspicious activities to the police.
- Be comfortable and confident with who you open your door to.
Drivers should:
- Driver sober.
- Avoid residential areas while trick-or-treaters are out.
- Slow down and watch for children that may be using crosswalks.
- Be alert for any children on the road.
- Do not drive while wearing costumes that could impeded your vision, hearing, or ability to operate a motor vehicle properly.
