On Halloween night, little ghosts, goblins and ghouls will pour onto the streets with the sole priority of collecting candy. But for parents, the number one priority is keeping their children safe. That is why CAA Niagara wants to remind everyone to practice great care and caution while out trick-or-treating or on the roadways this coming Monday.
Here are a few of our Halloween tips to help keep everyone safe:
Parents & Trick-or-Treaters
- Consider heading out at an earlier time to make sure drivers can see you on the road.
- If you do choose to venture out after dark, select costumes for your children that are bright at night and don’t obstruct their vision and hearing.
- Use reflective tape on costumes and have children carry a flashlight or glow stick for easy visibility.
- Use makeup instead of a mask to allow for better vision.
- Trick or treating in groups is always a good idea. It’s safer and groups are more visible to drivers.
- Ensure your children avoid eating any candy until you have had the chance to examine it.
- Remind your children to only go up to houses that have their porch lights on and to never enter homes or vehicles.
Drivers
- On Halloween night, treat the streets like they’re one big school zone. Slow down, especially in and around residential neighbourhoods, and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
- Be on the lookout for excited children who may dash across the street. Continually scan not only the road ahead, but also driveways, front yards and the spaces between parked cars.
- Buckle your kids in properly if you plan to drive them between neighborhoods. Make sure costumes with padding do not interfere with your child's car seat, booster seat or seat belt.
- If dropping off or picking up children, be sure to communicate with other drivers by using your signals, pulling over into a safe zone and turning on your vehicle’s hazard lights.
Candy Givers
- Make sure the path to your door is well lit and clear of leaves and debris.
- Instead of a traditional candle, consider using battery-operated or solar-powered tea lights to bring your jack-o-lanterns to life.
- Be mindful of children’s intolerances and allergies. Consider offering a variety of candy, including nut/dairy/gluten free options.
With these helpful tips to guide your travels, Halloween can truly be a spook-tacular and safe event for the whole family.
For more road safety tips from CAA Niagara, visit caaniagara.ca/community/road-safety.