7 tips for having a safe Halloween

CALGARY- Various organizations across Calgary are banding together to make sure Halloween is safe for trick-or-treaters this year.

Organized by Calgary’s Child Magazine, Calgary’s Partners for Safety aims to protect Halloween-goers by patrolling neighbourhoods. The City of Calgary, Emergency Medical Services, and Shaw TV are among those participating in the initiative.

From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, over 800 marked vehicles, including police cars and fire trucks, will patrol various communities and provide a safe c ontact for any trick-or-treaters in need.

“Every year we are happy to come together with our colleagues in emergency services and community services to ensure that Halloween is a fun and safe experience for all young costumed trick-or-treaters,” says Carol Henke, Public Information Officer for the Calgary Fire Department.

Halloween-goers can also visit local fire stations or speak to Calgary Transit drivers if they need help.

The Partners for Safety organization is offering a number of tips to be safe this Halloween:

-Choose Halloween costumes that  allow your trick-or-treater to see clearly. Avoid costumes that are too loose and could choke or trip, and make sure costumes are made of bright, reflective material.

-Always ask where your trick-or-treaters are going and when they will be home.

-Trick-or-treaters should stay in the doorway or on the doorstep when trick-or-treating

-Travel in groups and avoid shortcuts through alleys or private property

-Cross the street at intersections after looking both ways to make sure it is safe to cross

-Trick-or-treaters that are out after dark should carry a flashlight to help them see and to make them more visible to others

-Inspect all Halloween treats before children eat them