Halloween Safety Tips from the Brandon Police Service

Here are some tips for all to enjoy a safe Halloween.

Trick-or-Treaters:

• Wear bright costumes with reflective tape or glow sticks so drivers can see you.
• Wear face paint instead of a mask. The mask can obstruct your vision. If you are wearing a mask always, remove it when you cross the street.
• Weapons as part of costumes should be easily identifiable as imitation.
• Carry a flashlight.
• Go trick-or-treating with a trusted adult, or travel in groups if you are old enough to be out alone.
• Carry a cell phone if unaccompanied by an adult.
• Always walk on the sidewalks.
• Be very careful crossing the street! Do not run out from behind cars and do not go back and forth across the street; walk down one side of the street. When you reach the end, cross to the other side.
• Walk facing traffic on the side of the road if there are no sidewalks.
• Stay in well-lit areas.
• Watch for cars pulling out of driveways.
• Never go inside a stranger’s house for treats. Wait for them outside.
• Do not go near pets you don’t know.
• Pets you do know may not recognize you and may be scared by your costume; this may cause them to be unpredictable.
• Get a game plan in place so everyone knows the route to follow. Have a central place where everyone meets up if you are separated.
• Know the places along the route where it is safe to go for help.
• Do not eat treats until you get home.
• Parents and or Guardians should check and inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it.
• If a house is in darkness, the homeowners are not participating in handing out treats.

Drivers:

• Slow down.
• Pay attention for children running across streets and know that some will be in dark costumes.
• Do not wear costumes that interfere with the safe operation of a motor vehicle.
• Do Not Drive while Impaired.
• Avoid distractions such as cell phone use, texting, taking pictures and social media posting.
• If possible, avoid driving in residential areas where there will be a high volume of trick-or-treaters.

Homeowners:

• Ensure your house is well lit if you are participating in handing out treats.
• Keep walkways obstacle free.
• Report any suspicious activity you may see.

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!