As Halloween approaches, the North Bay Police Service is stepping up to ensure community members have a safe and enjoyable celebration. With ghosts, goblins, and superheroes preparing to hit the streets, police are sharing essential safety guidelines that could make all the difference between a frightening night and a fantastic one.
Costume Considerations for Maximum Safety
Your child's costume should be more than just scary—it should be safe. Police recommend choosing brightly colored costumes that enhance visibility after dark. If darker costumes are unavoidable, add reflective tape or stickers to make your little ones stand out to drivers. Ensure costumes fit properly to prevent tripping hazards, and opt for face paint instead of masks that can obstruct vision.
Trick-or-Treating: Street Smart Strategies
When it comes to collecting those sweet treats, planning is key. Police advise establishing a predetermined route with your children and setting a firm curfew. Younger children should always be accompanied by adults, while older kids should travel in groups. Remind children to only approach well-lit homes and never enter a stranger's residence.
Visibility and Traffic Safety Measures
With excitement running high, children often forget basic road safety. Equip each trick-or-treater with a flashlight or glow sticks, and reinforce the importance of using sidewalks and crosswalks. Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing streets and to look both ways—even on one-way streets.
Treat Inspection Protocol
Before the candy feast begins, police urge parents to thoroughly inspect all treats. Discard any homemade items from strangers, unwrapped candies, or products with tampered packaging. When in doubt, throw it out—this simple rule helps prevent potential health risks.
Alternative Celebration Options
For those seeking indoor alternatives, the police service suggests considering community events, mall trick-or-treating, or organized parties. These controlled environments can provide all the fun with added security and supervision.
By following these guidelines from the North Bay Police Service, families can focus on creating spooktacular memories while minimizing risks. A little preparation ensures Halloween remains a highlight of the autumn season for all the right reasons.
