NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE POLICE SERVICE
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Here are a few safety tips to ensure your family's Halloween is a fun and exciting night for everyone.
Parents
- Encourage children to choose brightly coloured, non-flammable costumes. Placing reflective stickers on the front, back and sides will ensure better visibility.
- Using face-paint or make-up is a better choice to ensure visibility. If a mask is being used, make sure it fits and cut out large eye openings.
- Try and have the kids out as early as possible.
- Give your child a small flashlight before heading out.
- Make sure at least one responsible adult accompanies younger children.
- Instruct your child to never go inside a house or eat candy before it's checked.
- Remind them never to run across the road or between parked cars and look both ways when crossing the street.
- Inspect all candy wrappers and discard any homemade treats, including fruits, unless you know and trust the source.
- Immediately report any dangerous or suspicious incidents to Police.
- Minimize risks to older children who may wish to trick or treat without being accompanied by a parent by knowing their route, establishing a curfew and reminding them of the tips for unsupervised children.
Older Children Unaccompanied By Adults
- Always use the buddy system and try to travel in groups.
- Carry a cell phone for emergency use only. Avoid drawing attention to yourself in the event you have to use it.
- Be wary of groups of teenagers not wearing costumes.
- Stick to your pre-planned route or advise parents before you change plans.
- Only visit well-lit homes.
- If you require immediate assistance look for an adult accompanied by children or in an emergency call 911.
Homeowners
- Make sure your property is safe. Turn on outside lights and clear the property of toys or obstacles that could cause a fall.
- Store valuable items such as outdoor furniture, equipment, cars and bicycles in a locked garage or shed.
- Place pumpkins in a window or at the front door for viewing. Do not leave them unattended, or on the front step. Extinguish all candles or better yet, use battery operated tea lights
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