Fright night is approaching, and the streets along the Sea to Sky will be flocked with costumed kiddos and adults in search of a sweet and scary treat.
As such, the Sea to Sky RCMP is offering some tips on how to stay safe (but still spooky) this Halloween.
“The Sea to Sky Whistler RCMP wants everyone to be prepared to enjoy and fun and safe Halloween night!” Cpl. Katrina Boehmer said in a press release.
Tips for drivers
“Be alert!” Boehmer said.
“As the evening gets darker, motorists should be prepared to reduce speeds to prepare themselves for excited candy hunters that could inadvertently or suddenly dash through crosswalks to seek out their loot!”
Tips for parents and trick-or-treaters
“Be seen!” Boehmer adds.
“Costumes can be cute, fun or scary, but the most scary costume of all is one that can’t be seen!
“Plan to incorporate items into your costume or evening wear that make you more visible to drivers in low light. Some ideas include glow sticks, reflective attachments (such as the ICBC pedestrian safety Indigenous feather reflector) and wearing light-coloured costumes.”
Tips for safe candy consumption
“Be smart!” she said.
“Parents and guardians are reminded to inspect all treats that your small, or even bigger, trick-or-treaters may receive during their hunt for candy.”
Boehmer explains that while the Whistler RCMP has not seen any recent incidents of candy tampering, parents, guardians and candy consumers should read the labels on items that end up in their loot bags.
“The Sea to Sky Whistler RCMP encourages anyone who receives any suspicious candy or treats during the evening to report this to the Whistler RCMP Detachment immediately at (604) 932-3044.”
Tips for everyone over 19 years of age
“Be responsible!” Boehmer said.
“Halloween festivities can be fun, even for the big kids. Plan a safe ride home and ensure the safety of everyone who is out enjoying the evening.”
Tips for general safety
Boehmer encourages all parents to talk to their children before heading out on Oct. 31.
She suggests the following talking points be addressed for optimal trick-or-treat safety:
- plan your route
- have a safety plan backup for emergencies
- follow the rules of sidewalk safety, such as using crosswalks
- stay with friends and/or family and
- discuss the appropriate use of “fake” costume accessories such as guns, knives, swords or other zombie-eradicating weapons. These items should not be handled in a way that makes another person believe that they are real. Avoid unnecessary calls to the Police that could interfere with your candy quests!
Pet owners are also encouraged to secure their animals for the evening for the safety of the animals and children.
For more safety tips, visit Halloween safety tips | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (rcmp.ca).
