On Tuesday night, thousands of kids across Windsor-Essex will head out in the chilly, spooky weather, running to get as many treats as they can.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) say, though, that with this pastime comes a responsibility to be safe. So, the OPP has provided a safety reminder to parents before they head out trick-or-treating.
"Area youth will be out in full force going door to door to collect Halloween treats. They will be focused on getting to as many homes as they can to fill up their loot bags," read a release from the Essex County OPP. "They won't be thinking about vehicles or other safety hazards, so we need to work together to keep them safe as they move from house to house."
The OPP suggests the following tips.
Drivers should be extra vigilant if they are out driving, as kids will likely be excited and running from house to house. Slow down and keep your lights on. OPP officers will have extra patrols out watching for speeders, as well as distracted or aggressive driving.
Kids should stay on the sidewalks whenever possible. If you must walk in the street, stay close to the curb and walk on the side facing oncoming traffic.
Try to use makeup rather than a mask, as a mask may reduce a child's peripheral vision. If a mask is required, cut the eye and mouth holes to make it easy for the child to see and breathe. It also doesn't hurt to carry a light or place a reflector or two on your child's costume.
Small children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult and stick to familiar neighbourhoods.
Only go to houses with porch lights on and Halloween decorations put up, and be sure to walk and not run. Stay on the house's path. Not only is walking across a person's lawn impolite, but it's hard to see a rake or a garden hose in the dark.
Make sure your child does not eat candy out of the bag while walking. All treats should be brought home and checked out before being given to a child to eat.
Unless you and your child know the person who lives there well, never enter a house to get a treat. Also, do not accept treats from anyone on the street.
The OPP also reminds parents that while soaping windows or toilet-papering houses may seem like harmless fun, it may also be considered mischief. Police are asking parents to remind kids of any consequences.
For adults who may be attending Halloween parties, the OPP is urging people not to drive if they drink or use cannabis. Use public transit or designate a driver.