Halloween safety tips:
Choose a costume that is bright, visible and without long trailing fabric that could catch a flame
Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks so cars can easily see them
Stick to the sidewalk: do not jaywalk, even if the house across the road has really cool decorations
Have an adult or an older teenager accompany young children trick-0r-treating
Keep all decorations away from open flames, especially dried flowers, crepe paper and cornstalks
Use a battery-operated candle in your jack-o-lantern
Ensure costumes with fake weapons are easily identified as fake
Check that a mask does not block the child’s vision or sightlines
Teach children to stop, drop and roll if their costume catches fire
Make sure all smoke alarms in the home are working
“Another important thing to remember is that firecrackers and recreational fireworks are not allowed in the City of Kelowna,” says Rick Euper, Fire and Life Safety Educator and Inspector with the Kelowna Fire Department. “Not only can they be dangerous to an inexperienced operator and those observing, but they also pose a significant fire risk with surrounding trees, grasses and dry areas. It doesn’t take much for something to get out of hand.”
“Our officers will be out patrolling on Halloween night,” says Cst. Lesley Smith with the Kelowna RCMP. “The community can help by being street smart and keeping an eye out in their neighbourhood. If you see something suspicious or a dangerous situation, call 9-1-1. We all have a common goal for it to be a safe and fun holiday.”
On Halloween night (Oct. 31) RCMP volunteers will also be out patrolling neighbourhoods acting as extra eyes and ears for frontline officers. Firefighters from Station 7 in South East Kelowna will also be set up on the corner of Spaarpak and Kimatouche Roads handing out candy and hot chocolate to trick-or-treaters.
For more information, view the full list of RCMP Halloween safety tips and Kelowna Fire Department Halloween safety tips.