Police in Nanaimo are suggesting a few tricks to make sure Halloween is a treat for children, drivers and homeowners.
Trick or treaters and their parents can prepare for a safe night out by taking a few safety precautions.
Trick or treating is safer when done in groups so always go with friends. Never go alone.
Wear a safe costume with bright colours, reflective materials and avoid masks that restrict vision.
Don’t criss-cross streets or run out from between parked vehicles.
Walk on sides of roads or sidewalks and avoid crossing lawns when approaching homes.
Only trick or treat at houses where the lights are turned on.
Children should never eat treats until an adult has inspected them.
Drivers are asked to slow down and be prepared to react, since children can pop out onto the road anywhere at any time on Halloween.
Homeowners are asked to keep their lights on and porches and walkways clear of debris and items that pose a tripping hazard.
Fireworks: Possession and discharge of fireworks is prohibited in Nanaimo without obtaining prior written permission from the city.
“Halloween is traditionally a busy night and accordingly, the Nanaimo RCMP will have sufficient resources in place augmented by auxiliary police officers and Community Policing volunteers," said Const. Gary O'Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, in a press release. "Have fun, stay safe and enjoy the evening."
Nanaimo Regional Transit is also reminding parents and children that all B.C. Transit buses are safe places for children who might become lost or separated from their groups.
Young children should be accompanied by adults or responsible older child since they lack the developmental skills to cross the street on their own
Teach your child to stop at the curb, look left, right and left again, and to listen for oncoming traffic and only cross at intersections, crosswalks or street corners.
Only visit homes visibly participating in Halloween with decorations and lights on and remind children to never enter anyone’s house or vehicle.
Drivers are reminded to drive slowly in residential areas where children are more likely to be trick-or-treating, reduce distractions and stay alert, watch out for children who might be wearing masks that make it difficult for them to see and remember to enter and exit intersections and driveways slowly and carefully.
Expect the unexpected. In the Halloween excitement, children can forget simple pedestrian safety rules and dart out between parked vehicles.