Local Police Offer Halloween Safety Tips

Friday, 31 October 2025 05:33

Local police have some tips to make sure everyone has a safe and fun Halloween this evening.

OXFORD COUNTY - Ghost, goblins and ghouls will hit the streets for Halloween tonight.

The Oxford OPP and Woodstock Police Service have some tips to make sure everyone has a fun and safe time this evening.

Pritpal Thind is the Community Service and Media Relations Officer for Woodstock Police. He has this piece of advice for homeowners planning to decorate for this evening.

"Choose flameless candles instead of real ones to prevent fires, the fire department would appreciate you for doing that. We encourage that adults handle any pumpkin carving to prevent injuries and be cautious to not overload any electrical cords or decorations."

Homeowners out there should also clear their walkways and make sure their home is well lit if they are planning on welcoming trick-or-treaters this evening.

Thind also has a few reminders for those planning on going trick-or-treating this evening.

"Please stick to sidewalks, cross at crosswalks only, and only visit well lit and familiar neighbourhoods. Little ghosts, goblins and fairies should always be accompanied by an adult and for parents out there, please keep your phones charges and make sure your children know how to reach you."

Trick-or-treaters should have something bright and/or reflective on their costume, so they are easier to spot as the sun goes down. Thing recommends adding a strip of reflective tape to your costume or your treat bag.

OPP Constable Matt Foster says the kids should also show their Halloween candy to their parents before digging in.

"There are some things out there that we always see on social media after Halloween, where there are things that are not edible and not safe for children concealed in candy. So if you can, as a parent I would encourage you to check all of the candy and discard anything that's unwrapped or looks suspicious."

Drivers should be on the lookout for kids at all times, even in areas where doesn't look like anyone is trick-or-treating.

With Halloween falling on a Friday and the Toronto Blue Jays also playing in the World Series tonight, lots of people might be going out for drinks. Whether you're going to a bar or to a party at a friends house, Foster stresses the importance of finding a sober ride home.

"Being Halloween with more kids and vulnerable people out on the street, it's even more important to ensure you have a safe and sober ride home whether it's a taxi or a pre-arranged ride. Anything that is not putting an impaired driver behind the wheel."