The Canadian Centre for Child Protection is encouraging parents to set some time aside to talk to their children about ways to stay safe while trick-or-treating. Younger children can be taught about the Buddy System, by visiting a new website, billybuddy.ca, where parents can use the interactive Halloween game to reinforce this important safety strategy. The game is part of the Billy Brings his Buddies program, which includes a Grade One teacher kit, an online storybook and interactive activities to help educators and parents reinforce the buddy system with kids year-round.

For parents with older children, it’s important to take steps such as planning the trick-or-treating route their children will take, and discussing the importance of staying in well-known and well-lit areas. Kids should be taught to avoid going into people’s homes for treats, to know where to go if they run into any trouble, and importantly – to trust their instincts. If possible, older children should carry a cell phone.

To download the Canadian Centre’s Halloween safety tips sheet and to access the Billy Brings his Buddies Halloween Game, parents and educators can visit billybuddy.ca.