Halloween is a fun time for everyone, I took my neice yesturday to get her halloween costume and it seemed there was not many choices left. (Leave it to the auntie to wait untill Oct 24th) As my neice was in the backseat we got talking about trick or treating and being safe while shes out having fun. So when I got to work I actually went online to the Winnipeg Police Service website where they posted Halloween Safety Tips. Weather you are trick or treating, giving out candy, or simply leaving the house on Oct 31st there are some safety tips you need to be aware of to keep yourself and others safe this year. Just thought I would post it for you all to read.
Parents
- Younger children should never be allowed to go out alone. Make sure a responsible adult accompanies them.
- Older children that are not accompanied by a parent should go trick-or-treating with a group.
- Instruct children to never go into the home of a stranger or get into a stranger’s car.
- Know the route your children are taking and when they will be home.
- Let your children know not to cut through back lanes and fields. Make sure your children know to stay in populated, well-lit areas and not to go off the beaten track.
- Make sure your child carries a flashlight, glow stick or has reflective tape on their costume to make them more visible.
- When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.
- Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
- Because wearing a mask can make it difficult to see or breath, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.
- Plan your route ahead of time. Pick well-lit streets.
- Secure emergency identification (name, address and telephone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.
- Tell children not to eat any of their treats until they get home and an adult has had an opportunity to examine the treats. Avoid homemade treats and candy not in intact wrappers. Inspect commercially wrapped treats for signs of tampering, such as an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes or tears in wrappers. Throw away anything that looks suspicious.
- Remind any teenagers that may be driving on Halloween evening, to remain cautious and to drive slowly throughout the community.
- Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard.
- Give out only commercially wrapped candy.
Trick or Treaters
- Do not trick-or-treat by yourself.
- Wear a costume that makes it easy for you to walk, see and be seen.
- Try to trick or treat when it is still light outside.
- If you are in trouble, go to a Block Parent Home.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
- Cross only at corners, look both ways, and obey all traffic signals when crossing the street. Never cross between parked cars or in the middle of the block.
- Do not take short cuts, especially through alleys.
- Only go to homes that have the outside light turned on. Never approach someone in a car offering candy.
- Take a cell phone with you trick or treating, if possible.
- Wait until you get home before eating any treats.
- Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.
Homeowners
- Put your porch or front light on so children know it is ok to come to your door.
- Police should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.
- Homeowners should make every effort to make sure their yard is clear and safe and that their pets are secure so no harm comes to them or the children.
- Use battery powered lanterns or glow sticks in place of candles in decorations.
- Give out only commercially wrapped candy.
- Never invite children into your home.
- Keep pets away from children, especially large or very active, energetic dogs.
Motorists
- Drive slowly and cautiously
- Keep alert for children walking or running on the street, or darting between parked cars.
- Be careful when pulling up to and leaving your driveway.
- Play music at a volume that you can still hear children crossing your path.
- Avoid using a cell phone while driving, as it can cause you to be distracted.
- Never drink and drive.
Be safe and have fun!
Check out these spooky treats!!!!!!!!
(click here)
Happy Halloween Everyone!