Halloween Safety Tips from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

The Manitoba RCMP are sharing some advice for Halloween that everyone can use.
   
Trick-or-treaters 

1. Visible costumes: Ensure costumes are bright and reflective. Consider adding reflective tape or stickers, especially if children are wearing dark colours. 
2. Travel in groups: Never trick or treat alone. Always walk with a group of friends or an adult. 
3. Stay on sidewalks: Avoid walking on streets when possible. If you must walk on a street, stay on the side facing oncoming traffic. Don't crisscross streets to get from house to house. 
4. Check candies: Don't eat your candies until an adult has checked them. Discard any open or suspicious-looking goodies. 
5. Watch for cars: Look before crossing the street and be aware of cars pulling in and out of driveways and backing up. 

Homeowners   

1. Illuminated and clear pathways: Make sure the pathway to your front door is clear of snow and ice and well-lit. It also lets trick-or-treaters know they're welcome! .
2. Fire safety: If using candles in your decorations, place them far from flammable materials and always monitor them. Consider using LED candles as a safer alternative in your pumpkins.
3. Offer packaged treats: Stick to offering store-bought, sealed candies to ensure they're safe for consumption. 

Motorists 

1. Drive slowly: Halloween means there will be lots of excited children on the streets. Drivers need to use extra caution. Drive slowly in residential areas where children are more likely to be trick-or-treating. Reduce your speed and stay alert.
2. Check mirrors and look around: When backing up, don't just rely on your dash video – look around and make sure it is safe to move.
3. Enter and exit driveways with caution: Watch for children walking on sidewalks and in between vehicles.
4. Never drive impaired! 

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