The City of Toronto wants to remind everyone to stay safe and have fun this Halloween. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to review the following safety tips before trick-or-treat activities on Wednesday.
Avoid slips, trips and falls
• Check the costume’s size to ensure a snug fit, with the costume no longer than ankle length.
• Consider makeup instead of a mask for your child. Masks can restrict vision and make it difficult to see approaching traffic.
• Turn on your porch light and clear walkways of clutter.
Prevent fires
• Keep candles, matches and lighters away from children.
• Keep lit pumpkins away from drapes, decorations or other flammable objects.
• Consider lighting your pumpkin with a flameless candle or glow stick.
Be visible
• Carry a flashlight.
• Attach a strip of reflective tape or apply reflective spray to your child’s costume.
• Wear light-coloured clothing instead of primarily dark colours.
Plan ahead to stay warm and dry
• Send your child out in layers of clothing – an extra layer under the costume will make a difference if a child is outside for an extended period.
• Place a hat and mitts in your child’s treat bag in case they are needed.
Follow basic safety rules
• Supervise small children when they are crossing a road.
• Wait for cars to come to a complete stop before starting to walk across the street at a stop sign, crosswalk or traffic light.
• Plan a meeting spot in advance in case friends/family members who are out together become separated.
• Check treats for signs of tampering or for candy that appears likely to be a potential choking hazard before allowing children to eat any treats.
Pet owners, keep the following tips in mind and celebrate the holiday safely with your pet:
• Make sure pets are wearing tags with ID and a City of Toronto pet licence.
• Ensure visibility with a reflective leash or bike light.
• Remember to supervise pets around jack-o-lanterns. Swallowing large pieces of raw pumpkin can create blockages in their systems.
• Trick-or-treaters can be scary. If a pet is not social, keep them away from the door.
• Keep treat bowl elevated and/or away from curious pets.
• Costumes can be fun and we love them, but pets may not. Make sure your pet is comfortable when wearing a costume.
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