Environment Canada calls for heavy rain in Ottawa for Halloween

Those who are looking to trick-or-treat Thursday night should look to incorporate a raincoat into their costume as Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement calling for heavy rain in Ottawa.

According to the department, the potential for “significant rainfall” is expected to begin Wednesday and continue through Friday afternoon.

4:12 When should you let kids trick-or-treat on their own

“A low pressure system will approach Southern Ontario from the southwest,” Environment Canada said in a release.

“Rainfall amounts of 30 to 50 mm are possible, with the heaviest rain occurring Thursday evening.”

The forecast also says strong wind gusts of 70 km/h are possible on Friday morning into Friday afternoon.

The department also recommends drivers turn on headlights and maintain a safe following distance if it is raining and is urging drivers to remember pedestrians are more difficult to see when it is dark and raining.

The OPP has released a list of tips to keep trick-or-treaters safe.

• Avoid baggy, long and oversized costumes that can be a tripping hazard.
• Trick-or-treaters should wear sturdy walking shoes.
• Use makeup instead of masks. Masks can reduce one’s ability to see obstacles, vehicles and other people.
• Carry a flashlight and select a costume with bright colours and reflective material to increase visibility to drivers.
• Walk, don’t run and remember to stop, look and listen before crossing the street.
• Never criss-cross the street. Cross at crosswalks or intersections. Trick-or-treat on one side of the street, then the other.
• Never trick-or-treat alone, go in a group or with an adult.
• If trick-or-treating with friends, tell your parents/guardians your route and when you will be home
• Stay in familiar neighbourhoods and only go to homes that are well lit and that are participating in Halloween.
• Never go inside a house to get your treat and never approach an unknown vehicle.
• Always have your treats checked by an adult before eating them.
• Make your home safe for trick-or-treaters. Remove all objects around the outside of your house that could cause children to trip or fall.
• Keep pets inside and away from trick-or-treaters.

The OPP is also reminding motorists to drive with caution and be on the lookout for trick-or-treaters throughout the afternoon and evening on Thursday.