NEWS RELEASE
GUELPH POLICE SERVICE
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The costume:
If you are buying your costume, look for one made from flame-retardent materials.
Carry a flashlight to light your way.
Use face paint instead of a mask so you can see properly, especially when crossing the road.
Add reflective tape to your costume and candy bag, and to props like brooms or hockey sticks.
Make sure your costume is short enough for you to easily walk in and that it doesn't drag on the ground.
Wear a watch you can read in the dark.
Wear comfortable shoes that properly fit your feet.
Carry only soft, flexible knives, swords, brooms or other props to prevent injury.
If you do wear a mask, take it off when crossing the street.
Trick-or-Treating:
Don't travel alone. Go trick-or-treating with friends or family!
Obey all traffic signals.
Plan your route with your parents.
Stay in familiar neighbourhoods.
Walk, don't run, especially across the street.
Trick-or-treat only at houses with their lights on.
If you get invited into a house, just say "No Thanks!" and move onto the next house.
Have your parents look over your candy collection before you eat any of it.
Visit houses on one side of the street, then move to the other side afterwards. Don't zig-zag across the street.
If the road has no sidewalk, walk in the left shoulder lane facing traffic.
Have your parents give you some quarters so you can call home if you get lost.
Homeowner:
Make sure your home and property are well-lit.
Be sure to remove anything from your yard or driveway that children could trip over.
Make sure the pathway to your door is clear of any potential hazards. Sweep wet leaves from your steps and sidewalk.
Battery-powered candles are preferred to open flames. If you use real candles in your jack-o-lanterns, make sure they are a safe distance away from trick-or-treaters.
Consider handing out non-food treats such as stickers, pencils or child-safe toys. Treats such as peanuts or hard candy can pose a choking hazard for small children as well as an allergic reaction among some trick-or-treaters.
Secure paper or yard decorations to keep them away from candle flames.
Keep your pets inside your home and away from the door. Halloween costumes can easily frighten animals.
Meet trick-or-treaters at the door and have treats ready. You shouldn't invite children into your home unless they're accompanied by an adult.
Driver:
If you have to drive anywhere on Halloween, reduce your speed and use extra caution, especially in residential areas. Be alert and watch for trick-or-treaters who may not be watching for you!
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