With Halloween looking a bit different in 2020, the RCMP is reminding folks how to stay safe during the festivities.
For trick or treating, they advise:
· Ensure costumes have a perfectly frightful fit. Make sure the length does not pose a tripping hazard. Wear bright costumes, reflective tape, glow sticks or carry a flashlight.
· Walk on the sidewalk when possible, visiting houses on one side of the street at a time.
· Choose costumes that allow a non-medical mask to be worn underneath. Make sure you can see and breathe comfortably.
· Ideally, children should be accompanied by a parent, adult family member, an older sibling or trusted family friend.
· Children should not enter a house nor a vehicle of someone they do not know.
· Avoid alleys, dark parking areas, or vacant lots.
· Maintain social distancing of two metres, try and stay in your own neighbourhood and avoid touching doorbells or knocking on doors by yelling “trick or treat.”
· Don’t go trick or treating if feeling ill.
Drivers have a role in keeping trick or treaters safe:
· Drive slowly through residential areas, watching for children who may be on the road or using crosswalks.
· Carefully enter and exit driveways and alleys.
· Watch for children darting out from houses and cars.
· When approaching intersections, be extra diligent in coming to full and complete stops; proceeding slowly thereafter.
Advice for those handing out candy:
· Don’t hand out candy if you are feeling ill or self-isolating.
· Wear a non-medical mask that fully covers your nose and mouth.
· Use tongs to hand out pre-packaged candy and find creative ways to maintain distance from trick or treaters.
· Keep a clear path from the road or sidewalk to your front door. Remove any items that may pose a tripping hazard.
· Leave the porch lights on.
· Pets should be kept inside away from trick or treaters.
· Report any suspicious activities to the RCMP.