A Few Halloween Reminders...

Halloween is the highlight of the year for many kids, and happy little goblins, witches and superheroes will be let loose around Warman this evening. They will be excited to show off their awesome costumes and get free candy - what’s better than that, really? And even though everyone loves a good scare on Halloween, not so when considering the safety of our kids. There are a few things we can remember to help everyone have a safe and enjoyable evening.

As a driver, please be extra cautious while kids are out Trick or Treating. Drive slowly, anticipate kids being everywhere and turn your headlights on earlier in the day. Kids in costumes can be more difficult to see. Stop ahead of an intersection to let people cross safely, and keep an eye out all along the street, especially at alleyways and when turning. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.

When heading out Trick or Treating, get a group together. It’s a lot of fun and a safer way to go. Younger children should be still accompanied by an adult (groups can make it more fun for the adults as well), but if older kids are heading out without an adult with them, have them share their planned route with their family, set agreed-to boundaries and be home on time.

Children should wear costumes that are appropriate for the weather, and wearing the right size helps prevent trips and falls. Luckily it’s not very cold today so they shouldn’t have to bundle up too much! If their costumes are dark-coloured, decorate them with reflective tape and glowsticks to help them be seen. Face paint and makeup is better than masks which can obstruct their vision.

Remind kids to stay on the sidewalks and when crossing the street, don’t assume drivers see them – they should wait until the vehicle has stopped. They also may need a reminder to pay attention and avoid distractions while walking so they don’t unknowingly walk into the path of a vehicle.

Remember that, even though it’s Halloween, some people might not want to be disturbed. A good rule of thumb is to visit homes that have the outside light on – that's a sign the house is happy to receive Trick or Treaters. Don't persistently ring someone's doorbell, knock on their door or return to their house later. If they don't answer, it's best to move on.

Don't forget to stop in at the senior care homes, as they love to see the kids in their costumes!

If you’re staying home to hand out candy, enjoy all the excitement that Halloween brings to your door but be mindful that there may be kids with special needs, some of whom may be non-verbal. Be patient! Also, if you have some high school kids coming to your door asking for food donations, they are from Warman High School collecting items for the Warman Food Bank as part of the We Scare Hunger campaign. (Maybe they should get some candy, too!)

All in all, keep safety in mind, but the most important thing is to make memories with your family and friends, have some laughs and a lot of fun! Happy Halloween!