Have a safe and spooky Halloween

Halloween is popular time for Canadians to dress up our homes and kids, to get ready for the spooky season. Follow our tips for a safe, fun and memorable experience.

Costumes

• Check costume lengths to ensure kids won’t trip over them when going up steps.
• Consider costumes that fit over warm clothing in case it’s a cold night.
• Select brightly-coloured costumes and use face paint or make-up instead of masks so vision isn’t obstructed.
• Ensure all wigs, fake beards and costume materials are labelled “flame resistant”.
• Add reflective tape to costumes or to your child’s treat bag so they are visible to cars.

Decorating your home

• Use battery-operated candles or glow sticks (available at dollar stores) as safe alternatives to regular candles inside jack-o-lanterns.
• On October 31, turn on your outside lights and ensure the path to your door is lit clearly and unobstructed.
• Be mindful of where you place decorations as these can be a tripping hazard. Clear leaves or debris that may block the path to your door.
• Hosting a Halloween party? Check your homeowners insurance policy for liability coverage, in case someone is injured on your property.

Candy consumption

• Before you let the kids enjoy their treats, carefully inspect the candy and toss any that are opened. Discourage kids from eating the candy while they’re out trick-or-treating.
• If your child has a food allergy, pay close attention to the ingredients listed on the candy.

Travelling on Halloween

• Drive slowly and watch for excited children who may dart out on the road.
• Obey the traffic signals and be alert.
• If you choose to drink, have a designated driver, money for a taxi or a place to stay the night.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!