Ottawa Police handing out safety tips ahead of Halloween

Ottawa police are reminding the public to be cautious and alert on what is expected to be a busy Halloween night. CTV’s Kimberley Johnson reports.

The Halloween countdown is on, but as trick-or-treaters get ready to knock on doors this weekend, Ottawa police are sharing safety tips after a particularly dangerous month on the city’s roads.

Ottawa Police Service Sgt. Sebastien Lemay says with Halloween falling on a weekend this year, it’s expected to be a busy night.

“The fact that Halloween is on a Saturday this year, we might see prolonged activities. So, the trick or treating might start earlier, some celebrations might start earlier.”

• Download the CTV News app now

Seven people have been killed in traffic collisions so far in October, and several pedestrians have been treated for serious injuries after being struck by vehicles.

Lemay is urging drivers to slow down and stay focused while on the roads.

“I think we’ve all been out on a trick or treating night, and sometimes it gets a little hectic. So, definitely, driving super cautiously, avoiding any type of distraction is really the way to go,” Lemay said.

Safety tips for Trick-or-Treaters and Families:

• Stay together: Always stay with a trusted adult or remain in a large, supervised group. Always go with young children on their neighbourhood rounds. Encourage youth to Trick-or-Treat in a group, remind them to regularly check in and agree on a specific time when they should return home.
• Remain visible: Carry glowsticks, flashlights, or wear reflective clothing so drivers can easily spot you in the dark.
• Stick to the path: Use sidewalks, cross only when safe, at crosswalks or corners. Never cut across streets or unlit yards.
• Keep your distance: Never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle. Avoid unlit houses or houses with no Halloween decorations.
• Inspect treats: Have a parent or guardian check and inspect all candy before eating anything. Never eat homemade treats, unsealed or unusual snacks, and if the item is unfamiliar, inspect and read labels carefully. When in doubt, throw it out.

Party People:

• Keep valuables close: Never leave personal items, food, or drinks unattended. Don’t accept open drinks from others.
• Buddy up: Go with a friend and check in on each other throughout the evening.
• Respect boundaries: No means no. Ensure clear, sober consent before any intimate activity.
• Drive sober: Plan your ride home before heading out. Use a designated driver, rideshare, or public transit.
• Stay connected: Keep your phone charged and share your location with a trusted person if you’re going somewhere unfamiliar.
• Be a good neighbour: Respect property and keep noise levels down.
• Look out for others: If someone needs help or something doesn’t seem right, speak up, offer assistance, or call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Drivers:

• Slow down: Reduce your speed significantly, especially in residential neighbourhoods where children might run across the streets unexpectedly.
• Turn on headlights early: Turn on your headlights before dusk to maximize your visibility to trick-or-treaters.
• Minimize distractions: Put away your phone and keep your full attention on the roads and sidewalks.
• Yield to pedestrians: Always give the trick-or-treaters the right of way, even if they aren’t crossing at a marked intersection.