Halloween Safety

Thursday, 31 October 2013 06:00

Woodstock Police have tips for keeping children safe this Halloween.

As children prepare to dress as their favourite super hero, princess or ghoul tonight, Woodstock Police are reminding parents to keep safety in mind.

Constable Steve McEwen says talking to children about safely crossing the road when collecting candy is key.

"Kids get kind of excited and they don't think about crossing the street and looking for traffic and that sort of thing. Make sure they're with an adult and they're crossing the street safely. If you're crossing the street, go down one side, cross over and then come back the other side and not criss crossing."

McEwen says costume safety is also important.

"We always say makeup is better but if they are wearing a mask, make sure they can see out of it. Make sure costumes are the right length and not tripping including right now to making sure their shoes are tied up so they're not tripping as they go down the side walk. Know where they are going and that they are going to be back by the planned time, that sort of thing."

He adds it's important for parents to check over candy before their children eat it.

"We've heard of it all across the country and North America of something found in somebody's treat, it takes a few minutes to check it over before you try it and wait until you get home."

Here's a full list of safety tips from Woodstock Police:

-Use face make-up or enlarge the eyes on your mask so you can see well.

-Wear a properly fitted costume that is bright and non – flammable. Use reflective tape on your costume so you can be seen in the dark.

-Costumes should be short enough to avoid tripping

-Consider carrying a flashlight to help out in dark areas, and maybe alleviate some frights as well.

-Crossing the street can be dangerous so avoid that as much as possible, go up one side of the street and then down the other.

-Visit the front doors of well lit homes and never go inside.

-Plan a route and time to be home, and stay close to home.

-Younger children should go with an adult and older children should trick or treat in groups.

-Always have an adult check your treats at home before you eat them.