How to keep Halloween trick-or-treaters safe

The Canadian Centre for Child Protection is asking parents to make a plan before kids head out to trick-or-treat.

(Canadian Centre for Child Protection)

Not only should it include routes but some back-up plans too.

“Knowing safe adults in the neighbourhood that they can go to in case they feel uncomfortable or needed help,” Manager of Training and Education Karyn Kibsey told 650 CKOM. “Knowing where to go in case of an emergency and staying connected with caregivers throughout the evening.”

While planning your route for the evening Kibsey suggests being mindful of things like lighting.

“Avoiding isolated areas or short cuts–staying on those well-lit streets where they see other people trick-or-treating,” she explained.

For children 12 and older, she said it’s ok to let them go out with friends.

“Just sticking together while they’re trick-or-treating,” she said. “If they’re moving from street to street, making sure everyone in their group is with them.”

For older children, Kibsey said parents should schedule times to check-in either with a call, text or in person.