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Have a safe Halloween Right now you may be frantically sewing a costume Dora the Explorer outfit, or perhaps sticking with an old classic like the white bedsheet with eyeholes, but soon your pride and joy will be out in our community collecting sugared treats in various forms and wrappings. Yes, Halloween is fast approaching. As you're preparing your child for this day please get them ready by following these safety guidelines: · Cross streets at cross walks, or controlled intersections only · Use sidewalks and public areas · Look both ways before entering the street · Travel in groups of friends or family only · Avoid homes that are poorly lit or secluded from public view · Trick or treat in neighbourhoods children are familiar with I also have some advice for parents: · Dress your pride and joy in a costume that not only is hip and with it, but is nonrestrictive · Use face paints as opposed to masks that may hinder or limit vision ·Avoid dark costumes and promote the wearing of bright or reflective colours · Trick or treat with your children, and offer to take your neighbour's children out as well. · Look over your sugared treats Const. Chris Borak before your children consume them. Check for tampered wrapping or questionable candies. When in doubt, throw it out · If you happen to be driving during the witching hours, pay extra attention to the little ghouls and goblins out in the streets. · Drive well below the posted speed limits in residential areas. Just take your time getting to your destination. Being in a rush on a night where most of our children are out and about is just not worth it. Be safe and have a happy Halloween. Contact me personally for crime prevention tips or for police information regarding community concerns through 905-878-5511 ext. 2470 or by e-mailing chris.borak@hrps.on.ca. Please reserve the 911 system for emergency calls only. --Const. Chris Borak is the community support officer for District 1