Halloween Safety Tips

Tips for Drivers

Children will probably be more excited about their next candy score than traffic safety. Help keep little ghosts and goblins safe by following these tips:

•    Pedestrians have the right of way at marked and unmarked crosswalks – even when they’re approaching a stop sign or yield sign. Stop before entering the intersection so they can cross the street safely.
•    Drive cautiously around young children. They’re tiny and that makes them hard to see, especially in some costumes! They think cars can stop instantly, so be prepared.
•    Reduce your speed in residential neighbourhoods, especially school and playground zones.
•    Never pass a stopped vehicle without first checking for pedestrians crossing the street.
•    Keep an eye out when turning. Drivers often turn their heads to look for other vehicles and accidentally ignore pedestrians crossing in front of them.
•    Ensure your headlights and tail lights are on at dusk so pedestrians can see you more easily.
•    Don’t drink and drive! If you’re attending an event that serves alcohol, plan a safe and sober ride.

Tips for trick-or-treaters

Kids are never too young to learn about traffic safety! Explain to your kids the importance of safety while trick-or-treating:

•    Trick-or-treat on one side of the street at a time. Crossing back-and-forth across the street in the middle of the block, or jaywalking, is extremely dangerous because drivers don't expect to see you there.
•    Look both ways before crossing the street and use crosswalks. Avoid wearing masks or costumes that may obstruct your vision.
•    Don’t assume drivers see you and will stop! Make eye contact with the driver before crossing the street to make sure they see you and are stopping for you.
•    Be seen sooner - if you’re trick-or-treating in the evening, wear a glow stick or reflective markings or carry a flashlight.
•    Use sidewalks or pathways, if you can. If you have to walk on the road, walk on the shoulder of the left lane, facing oncoming traffic. 
•    Avoid distractions while walking, including smartphones and headphones. You don’t want to unknowingly walk into the path of a vehicle.

Tips for Homeowners

As a homeowner, you are responsible for the safety of people visiting your home. Keep visitors safe with these tips:

•    Turn on your exterior lights and replace burnt out bulbs.
•    Remove hazards that trick-or-treaters could trip or slip on, such as extension cords, hoses, decorations, leaves, snow or ice.
•    Never leave candles unattended. For Jack-O-Lantern safety, use candle alternatives like flashlights or flameless candles.
•    Keep pets indoors and away from visitors, even if they’re well-trained – you never know if a particular pet or child will scare each other.
•    Deter break-ins and vandalism by locking vehicles and buildings, putting away all garbage and keeping valuables out of sight. Contact police immediately if you see anything suspicious.
•    If you’re hosting a Halloween party where alcohol is being served, ensure no one drives impaired. Offer to call them a safe ride or to spend the night.