Hallowe’en 2014 is fast approaching and the Caledon Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) wants everyone to have fun and be safe. “Hallowe’en is an exciting time of year for children,” said Inspector Tim Melanson, Caledon OPP Detachment Commander. “We need to remind our children how to avoid potentially dangerous situations while ensuring a memorable evening.”
Parents:
Accompany your children or ensure they are with a responsible adult
costumes should fit properly to prevent trips and falls
Select costumes with bright colors to increase your child’s visibility and add reflective strips
Provide your child with a flashlight and a cell phone, if available
Draw a map outlining the route they should follow and set a curfew
Do not allow your children to carry anything that looks like a weapon
Tell your children not to eat anything until they get home
Start trick or treating early before it gets too dark
Children and Youth:
Carry a white bag or pillowcase for your candy, or add some reflective tape
Bring a cell phone in case you need to make an emergency phone call
carry a flashlight
Trick or Treat with a friend
Visit homes that are well lit and never go inside a stranger’s home
Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic
Don’t criss-cross back and forth across the street
Never cross between parked cars, always at crosswalks, street corners or intersections
Don’t eat your treats before you get home. When home, ask your parents to look through the treats with you to make sure everything is safe
Tell your parents/guardians where you will be and Trick or Treat in familiar areas
Homeowners:
Turn on outdoor lights and replace burnt-out bulbs
Remove items from your yard or porch that might trip a child
Sweep wet leaves from your steps and sidewalk
Use an alternative to a candle in your pumpkin such as a flashlight or battery- operated candle. If you do use a candle, never leave it unattended
Drivers:
Drive slowly in residential areas where children are more likely to be trick or treating
Remember that costumes can limit a child’s vision and they may not be able to
see your vehicle
Reduce your distractions and stay alert
Enter and exit driveways slowly. Proceed with caution
Remember that safety is Caledon OPP’s top priority. If you observe any suspicious activity, please call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
