Halloween - that time of year where children transform themselves into ghosts, goblins, vampires, superheros and other characters while out trick-or-treating.
This night should be enjoyed by all, so the Lacombe Police Service would like to send out a friendly reminder to the following groups to ensure that it remains a safe night for all.
Parents and children - always go trick-or-treating in groups or with a parent/guardian or adult and make sure that you have a flashlight and that you or your group carry a cell phone. We also encourage all pedestrians to carry a glow stick.
Always have an emergency safety plan in the event something bad happens and make sure that there is a planned route in place and set a time to be back at home.
Parents, please make sure that your child can see through their mask; however we always recommend wearing face paint rather than a mask. Also, make sure that you are dressed for the weather.
Avoid wearing long capes or items that can be tripped on or caught in things, and always wear reflective clothing or tape on the costumes so that you are more visible to drivers.
Walk on well lit streets and trick-or-treat on one side of the road before crossing to the other side. Do not carry any items that look like a weapon.
Parents should also remind children to never go beyond the doorway of a house and to never talk to strangers.
Kids should also always have a parent or guardian check and inspect the candy to ensure that it has not been tampered with.
For homeowners, if you want make sure that children and parents are aware that you are participating in handing out Halloween treats we recommend you do the following: turn on your exterior lights to let children and parents know that they are welcome to come to the door and ensure that the pathway to your front door is clear of any obstacles to ensure no one trips or falls.
We recommend that you do not use any candles in Jack-o-lanterns that you may have set out. Using a small battery powered light will work just as well and this will ensure that no flame can come into contact with any clothing.
Also, inspect the treats that you plan on handing out to make sure that they are sealed and do not hand out homemade treats.
For drivers, Halloween is the one time of the year where we see a significant increase in pedestrian traffic.
Always remember that when children are out trick-o-treating that they are very excited to be doing this so always remain vigilant and extra cautious for children crossing the road, especially in residential areas. So please slow down.
Drive defensively and always expect the unexpected, like children darting out from between parked vehicles.
Ultimately, with everyone’s cooperation, let’s ensure that Halloween is a safe, fun, time for all. On behalf of the Lacombe Police Service we would like to wish you all a safe and happy Halloween.