Halloween can be an exciting time for children who are distracted by candy and costumes, and may not be focused on basic safety rules.
Here are a few tips for everyone when trick-or-treating tonight, courtesy of B.C. Transit.
n All B.C. Transit buses are safe places for children who may be lost or separated from their group.
n Young children should be accompanied by an adult or responsible older child since they lack the developmental skills to cross the street on their own.
n Ghosts and goblins must be seen to be scary. Incorporate visibility aids in all costumes.
n Teach your child to stop at the curb, look left, right and left again, and to listen for oncoming traffic.
n Always cross at intersections, crosswalks or street corners.
n Remind children: never enter anyone’s house or vehicle.
n Only visit homes that are visibly participating in Halloween – decorated and lights on.
Tips for drivers:
n Drive slowly in residential areas where children are more likely to be trick-or-treating.
n Reduce your distractions and stay alert.
n Remember to enter and exit intersections and driveways slowly and carefully.
n Watch out for children who may be wearing masks that make it difficult for them to see.
n Expect the unexpected. In the Halloween excitement, children may forget simple pedestrian safety rules and dart out between parked vehicles.