You’ll soon be hearing kids yelling “trick or treat!” and knocking on your front door because Halloween is just around the corner. Now that the community has grown from their first Halloween last year, the neighbourhood streets will be filled with superheroes and princesses as they run around, filling up their pillowcase or plastic pumpkin with candy.
While kids are out having fun, as parents it’s an important time to put their safety first. Before getting your kids ready to go out trick or treating, or while driving through the community, remember these important tips.
Make sure your children are visible
It gets dark early around this time of year, so before they head out into the neighbourhood, make sure they are visible not only to other trick or treaters, but motorists as well. Avoid dark costumes that will be hard to spot, instead opt for a bright coloured costume or add a reflector or flashing light to their costume.
Prepare your home for trick or treaters
It’s an exciting time to decorate your home with jack-o-lanterns, spooky skeletons and creepy cobwebs, but make sure to keep a clear path and your outdoor lights on for when trick or treaters arrive. You’ll also want to make sure to have candy options for kids who may have peanut or other allergies.
The rules of trick-or-treating
It can be easy for kids to forget to look both before crossing the street when trick or treating. Take a minute before your kids head out the door to go over some key street safety rules. Remind them to look both ways when crossing the street, stay on the sidewalks and be mindful of people’s yards and property.
Motorists be cautions
A child may be so excited to collect candy, that they sometimes may be unaware of their surroundings. When driving through RidgeWood West, or any other residential area, make sure you are slowing down and paying attention to the road. Take extra time at stop signs or when exiting your driveway, as kids can move quickly and in unpredictable ways.
Watch out for construction sites
RidgeWood West is continuing to grow, which is why it’s important to steer clear of streets still under construction. And although our builders take great care of where they are working, streets may still have debris. This can result in unwanted cuts, bumps and bruises if not careful.
By keeping these safety tips in mind, you will surely have a safe and spooktacular Halloween.
From everyone at Qualico Communities, we wish you a Happy Halloween!