Police, fire departments offer tips for safe, fun Halloween

In planning for a safe and fun Halloween this week, the following safety tips are being offered by the RCMP, the RNC and the St. John’s Regional Fire Department.

• Wear a light/bright-coloured costume, and add reflective tape or arm bands to increase visibility, or reflective goodie bags, and carry a flashlight and glow sticks, which will help make children visible to motorists.

• Make sure your vision is not restricted by a mask. Ensure your costume is made of flame-retardant material, and that it fits well to avoid ghostly falls or stumbles.

• Parents/guardians should help plan and be aware of the route their children will travel for trick-or-treating, and children under 12 should trick or treat and cross streets with an adult.

• Children should be able to recognize places where they can get help: a police station, a fire station or any other well-known public place.

• Stay on the sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left-hand side of the street facing traffic. There is safety in numbers; walk in groups and stay together. Never enter a house — only accept treats at the front door.

Take extra care with driving:

• Slow down and be extra cautious. Expect that trick-or-treaters may forget to look both ways before rushing across the street or a driveway in their search for treats.

• Watch for people using crosswalks. Ensure that your costume does not interfere with the safe operation of the motor vehicle.

• Make sure all walkways and driveways are well lit.