With trick-or-treating set to begin across Terrace this evening, the Terrace RCMP is reminding families and drivers to stay alert and make safety a top priority
Constable Kelly Cates says one of the biggest concerns on Halloween night is visibility, especially in rainy conditions like today.
“Dark evenings combined with rainy weather make it challenging for drivers to see pedestrians well,” she noted. Cates encourages children to wear reflective clothing, carry a flashlight, or use glow sticks or clip-on lights to help them be seen.
She also reminds trick-or-treaters to stick to neighborhoods that they are familiar with, travel in groups or with an adult, and never enter the home or vehicle of a stranger while out collecting candy.
Drivers can also help make sure the night is safe.
“Children can get very excited and forget about safety rules while they are out,” Cates noted. She advised motorists to lower their speed, expect kids to make sudden movements, and make sure to avoid distractions behind the wheel.
For those older youth who may be celebrating with friends tonight, planning ahead is key.
“Have a plan. Make sure parents or adults know your plan of where you will be trick or treating, such as your starting and ending locations, as well as your route and what time you plan to be home by. Youth with cell phones, keep them charged and turned on, and stay in contact.”
And because Halloween falls on a Friday this year, the night extends well beyond doorsteps.
“Parties may be going on at establishments as well as in homes,” Cates said. “Plan your evening from start to finish, including a safe ride home.”
The RCMP said a little bit of preparation, visibility, and patience on the roads will help ensure families across Terrace have a safe and fun Halloween
