Safety priority one on Halloween: Essex County OPP

featured-image

Article content Witches and warlocks, princesses and superheroes will flood into Windsor and Essex County neighbourhoods Thursday night in search of candy and other treats. To help keep the young trick-or-treaters out of harm’s way, Essex County Ontario Provincial Police service is urging pedestrians and motorists to prioritize safety. Little ghosts and goblins should ensure they are visible by wearing bright, reflective clothing, carrying a flashlight or glow sticks and using sidewalks and crosswalks where available, police said.

Children should travel with a buddy and have an adult or guardian accompany them. Motorists are asked to be especially vigilant in residential areas, to slow down and to watch for children who may suddenly step onto the road. Kids should be reminded to look both ways before crossing a street and drivers should allow extra time for folks to cross the road.



“Halloween is all about fun, but safety comes first,” police officials said. “Let’s make sure the only surprises this Halloween are sweet ones. “Don’t let anything distract you from the task of driving.

Drive like you are going through a community safety zone in front of a school. A child could dart out at any time. “Most important, have fun and stay safe.

” Once the trick-or-treating is done, an adult should inspect all the candy collected before kids are allowed to dig in. Increased police patrols will be conducted in local neighbourhoods to help ensure the safety of everyone participating. If you see a suspected impaired driver or distracted driver, police urge you to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or dial *OPP on your mobile device.

.