As the height of the spooky season approaches, some mind must be paid to safety along with the costumes and trick-or-treating.
This is the message from the Yukon RCMP which has offered up some tips for those out for Halloween festivities and those sharing roads and neighbourhoods with them to make sure everyone is home safe at the end of the night.
On the topic of traffic awareness, the police are advising motorists to go slow in residential neighbourhoods and watch carefully for children crossing the street. Parents and guardians are advised to tell their young trick-or-treaters to remain alert for traffic and make use of sidewalks and crosswalks. Those out trick-or-treating after dark are advised to include something reflective in their costumes or to carry glow sticks and flashlights to stay visible.
Those at home preparing to hand out candy are advised to clear walkways to prevent slips and falls. Flameless candles can be used to prevent fire hazards and people are advised to keep pets indoors to avoid them escaping during festivities.
When all the loot is gathered up at the end of the night, people are advised to discard any treats with broken seals or anything that looks suspicious.
"Not everyone celebrates Halloween for various reasons, including cultural, religious, or personal beliefs. It is always good to respect different perspectives. A common practice in some areas is to leave outside lights off to indicate your house is not participating in Halloween trick or treating," the RCMP notice from Oct. 30 reads.
Contact Jim Elliot at jim.elliot@yukon-news.com
