RCMP tips to have fun and be safe this Halloween

There will be a lot of little monsters, princesses and superheroes trick-or-treating on Halloween night and the NT RCMP wants to make sure everyone is able to enjoy the evening safely.

The RCMP is reminding children, their parents or guardians, and motorists, of a few safety tips to observe this Halloween.

For children:

• Never trick-or-treat alone. Always walk with an adult or a group of friends.
• Make sure you can be seen. Wear reflective, bright colour costumes, or fasten reflective tape to your costume or bag.
• Avoid masks that restrict your vision.
• Dress for the weather conditions. Wear layers underneath your costume if the temperature is cold.
• Only visit well-lit houses.
• Don’t go into the house for your treats; always wait outside.
• Don’t eat any treats until an adult has inspected them.
• Carry a flashlight so you can see where you are going.
• Cross the street at marked crosswalks and intersections.
• Watch for cars pulling out of driveways and backing up.
• Respect others’ property. Always use pathways and sidewalks.

For motorists:

• Halloween means there will be children on the streets. Drivers need to use extra caution. With the excitement of Halloween, children may forget simple pedestrian safety rules.
• Drive slowly in residential areas where children are more likely to be trick-or-treating. Reduce your speed and stay alert.
• Slow down and proceed with caution when entering and exiting driveways or backing up.

For parents and guardians:

• Know who your children are going trick-or-treating with and when they plan to return home.
• Remind children of which houses they can go to for safety if they get scared.

For treaters:

• Try to ensure your paths and sidewalks are clear and well lit.
• Arrange decorations to allow pedestrians to safely access your entrance.
• Be mindful of children of all ages who wish to participate in trick-or-treating.

All:

• Report any suspicious activity in your neighbourhood to your local RCMP detachment.

The RCMP and the Moose wish everyone a safe, treat-filled Halloween!