OPP issue Halloween safety reminder ahead of spooky weekend

Ghouls and goblins may rule the streets on Halloween, but they’re far from invincible.

With thousands of children expected to don their costumes and head out trick-or-treating on Saturday, local Ontario Provincial Police officers want parents and youngsters alike to exercise a little caution.

Const. Diana Cole spent Thursday afternoon going over dos and don’ts at Gorham and Ware Public School, reminding students to think before grabbing their loot bag and heading out the door.

Cole said first and foremost children and their parents should take precautions when picking out a costume.

They should be short enough not to worry about tripping and Cole recommended using face paint rather than masks. If a mask is an integral part of the costume, make sure the eye holes are large enough not to impede vision.

Trick-or-treaters should also be careful once they’ve started going door-to-door.

Only go to houses that are well lit, look both ways while crossing the street and stay on the sidewalks to avoid being hit by a vehicle.
Cole also cautioned students not to enter anyone’s house or vehicle to get candy, and warned parents to thoroughly check candy and other Halloween loot before youngsters dig in.

While incidents are rare in Thunder Bay, they have occurred over the years, Cole said.

“It’s not common, but it does happen,” she said.

While most are aware of the potential dangers of Halloween, it doesn’t hurt to provide a refresher course, Cole said.

“We want to make sure kids are paying attention,” she said.

“I think with the costumes and getting ready for Halloween, the preparation of it all and the excitement of it, we don’t want them to lose focus. That’s why I come into the schools every year and provide them with Halloween safety tips, just as a reminder.”