The RCMP are serving up something that's not quite as much fun as Halloween treats, but something just as important to help you make 2017's Halloween a safe and fun time.  

Sgt. Jack Poitras isn't offering Smarties, Mars bars or Twix, he's offering advice for kids who are planning on trick or treating, and parents who want to keep them safe.

"We want to make sure everyone gets through Halloween safely so we want to remind children to be cognizant of crossing the road. To wear bright costumes or carry glow sticks so motorists can see them. Wear face paint instead of masks that restrict your ability to see and hear."

Poitras also says to make sure your costume fits properly so you don't trip, to carry a flashlight, to go trick or treating with a trusted adult or with a group if your kids are old enough to go out on their own.

He also advises to never go inside a stranger's house for treats but to wait for them outside and, as parents, to always check children's treats before they start to eat them.

"We want parents to be vigilant and always go through their children's candy. If the kids think there's anything that looks out of place to always bring it to the attention of their parents. We want the public to be aware that things like that have happened in the past so always be diligent to look for them."

Poitras says Halloween safety is a shared responsibility and drivers also need to be on their best behavior. 

"We're asking motorists to slow down. It gets dark pretty early so there's a lack of daylight and you may not see them until the last second.  Drive slowly and watch out for kids who might not be paying as much attention as they should be."

Poitras says some people look at Halloween as an excuse to make trouble.  If you do, he says, you could pay for it.

"Remember that you're held accountable for any actions you might take so if you go out and cause mischief to somebody's property you could be charged for that. It's not an excuse for doing it just because it's Halloween night."

 

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