Huron OPP’s Halloween Safety Tips

Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) encourages families to plan ahead for a memorable and safe Halloween!  

Halloween is one of our favourite traditions, however with the added excitement and distractions of candy and costumes, safety rules may be forgotten. As such, Huron OPP would like to pass on the following safety tips to children, parents and motorists:

· Be Safe, Be Seen! Wear a reflective band, glow stick, use a flashlight and add reflective tape to your treat bag and costume.

· Small children should not go out alone. Try to go out when it is light out and young children should always be with a responsible adult.

· For the older ones, plan your route before you leave your house and ensure your parents know where you are going. Take a cell phone with you.

· Only go to homes that are well lit. If the home is in darkness, pass by it.

· Walk on the sidewalk whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic. It's unsafe to cross between parked cars and other obstacles. Do one side of the street before moving over to the other.

· Always look both ways for traffic before crossing the street.

· Avoid eating unwrapped candy and homemade treats from strangers. Parents should check the goodies before kids dig in.

· Homeowners participating in Halloween trick-or-treating should make sure their home is well lit. Pick up any obstructions such as garden hoses, bicycles, tools or other obstructions that pose a hazard.

· If you see suspicious activity or a crime in progress, please contact police.

Motorists need to drive slowly and be alert, especially in built up areas where children may be. During the excitement of trick or treating, children may dart out in front of traffic. Drivers should also be extra careful when entering and exiting driveways. 

Huron OPP will be providing highly visible patrols throughout Huron County towns and villages to keep things safe on Halloween night. If you head out trick-or-treating, please don't forget these tips to stay safe and have fun!