OPP stresses caution on Halloween

Sudbury OPP are reminding drivers to use extreme caution on Halloween night as all the excitement of going door to door can cause children to forget safety rules, said a news release.

When driving in areas with children, slow down and watch for them. Enter and exit alleyways and driveways slowly.

The OPP has also provided a number of safety tips fro homeowners, trick-or-treaters and parents:

Tips for homeowners:

- Make sure your yard is clear of such things as ladders, hoses, dog leashes and flower pots that can trip kids.
- Keep your pets in a secure place for the night.
- Artificial lights and candles are a safer alternative to real candles with a flame that can pose a fire hazard.
- If you do use candles, place the pumpkin well away from where trick-or-treaters will be walking or standing.
- Provide treats that are individually wrapped candy or offer non-food treats, such as stickers, pencils and erasers.

Tips for trick-or-treaters:

- Young children should always go trick-or-treating with an adult.
- Never trick-or-treat alone.  Have at least two buddies with you.
- Plan your entire route and make sure your family knows what it is.
- Wait until you get home and your parents check your candy before you eat any.
- Accept treats only in the doorway.  DON’T go inside.
- Only visit houses where the lights are on.
- Carry a flashlight.
- Cross the street at the corner or at a crosswalk.  Don’t zigzag.
- Be very cautious of strangers.

Tips for parents:

- Help your child pick out or make a costume that will be safe.  Make it visible with a proper fit, fire proof and ensure the mask’s eye holes are large enough for good peripheral vision.
- Should your child be dressed in dark clothing, attach fluorescent tape for more visibility.
- Teach your child basic “everyday safety”, such as not getting into vehicles, looking both ways before crossing streets and crossing using traffic lights.
- Know the route your kids will be taking if you aren’t going with them.
- Children should carry a cell phone or coins so they can call home.
- Make your child eat dinner before setting out.
- Have your child carry a glow stick or attach glow sticks to their costumes and inside their bags.
- Make sure your children walk, not run, from house to house and that they stay on the side of the road facing traffic.
- Parents should also carry a flashlight.

Members of the OPP and community volunteers will be out on patrols throughout the municipalities to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and Happy Halloween.