Lethbridge children have spent weeks thinking about their Halloween costumes and Saturday, the big night is here. As they go trick-or-treating, there are safety tips we all need to keep in mind to ensure a fun and safe Halloween night. A pleasant Halloween night is in the forecast, which could mean more children will be out. The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) and police say kids are going to be excited, so it’s important parents review a few safety tips before everyone heads out. “Go over some of the routes that they’ll be taking,” said Carrie Herrick-Fitzgerald, AMA program manager for childhood safety. “Go over some of those important pedestrian safety rules, which apply any time of the year, but especially when it’s darker.” “Just have conversations with your kids about crossing the road, looking both ways, as I’m sure they’re not thinking about it too much,” said Staff Sgt. Jim DeMone with the Lethbridge Police Service. While children need to be predictable pedestrians and use marked crosswalks, drivers need to be alert and watch for the unexpected. “Lots of people out on the roads and darker conditions, so it really matters for drivers that they take that time to be extra alert, very cautious, slowing down, giving lots of space,” said Herrick-Fitzgerald. Choice of costume is another factor to keep in mind. The AMA says bright, reflective clothing makes it easier for drivers to see the trick-or-treaters, but parents should be mindful of what their children are wearing on their faces, as it’s important they be able to see what’s happening around them. “We recommend face makeup as opposed to masks or hoods or things that might not allow them to see the road very well,” said Herrick-Fitzgerald. And one more reminder once you get home: Before you eat any candy, check it. “Obviously, just be mindful of the candy you have been accepting and have parents go through it to make sure there’s nothing in there that’s dangerous,” said DeMone.
