Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids of all ages – ghosts and goblins take over the streets of Edmonton to collect treats and celebrate with friends and family. Keep trick-or-treaters safe this Halloween with these tips from the Edmonton Police Service for parents, kids, motorists and homeowners:

Safety tips for parent and kids

• Kids should trick-or-treat in groups or with parents/guardians. If older kids go alone, designate areas for them to stay within, and set a time limit.
• Walk on well-lit streets and avoid alleys or dark areas. Kids shouldn’t go to houses that don’t have lights on, or that don’t look safe.
• Trick-or-treat on one side of the street, and then cross to the other. Never criss-cross the street.
• Carry a flashlight and cell phone in case of emergency. Leave valuables at home.
• Don’t carry anything that looks like a weapon.
• Ensure that you can see through a mask or makeup. Avoid long capes that can be easily tripped over. Make sure kids are dressed for the weather.
• Encourage your children to choose light-coloured costumes or costumes with reflective strips.  These costumes are easier for drivers to see.
• Check the candy your child brings home – throw out anything that is opened, suspicious, or home-made by someone you don’t know and trust.
• Warn your kids about participating in any vandalism or other mischief; these are crimes that will be investigated and charges could be laid.

Homeowners

• Turn on your porch light to let children know they’re welcome (or vice versa).
• Remove obstacles from yards and clear a path to the doorway.
• If you’re using candles in a jack-o-lantern, make sure the flames can’t come into contact with a child’s costume. Battery-powered lights are a safer alternative.

Driving responsibly

• Be extra vigilant driving in neighbourhoods with more children dressed up in costumes collecting treats.
• Adults enjoying the festivities with alcoholic beverages should have a designated driver or arrange a safe way to get home like taking public transit or a taxi.
• If you see a suspected impaired driver, call 911 to Curb the Danger.

Happy Halloween from the Edmonton Police Service!