With Halloween only three days away, Kelowna police officers and firefighters are teaming up to ensure the safety of residents.
According to Cst. Lesley Smith, Mounties will be patrolling parts of the community this Hallows-eve. While officers may be out and about, Smith wants to remind the public that they too can do their part in keeping each other safe.
“The community can help by being street smart and keeping an eye out in their neighbourhood,” said Smith. “If you see something suspicious or a dangerous situation, call 9-1-1, we all have a common goal for it to be a safe and fun holiday.”
Firefighters from Station 7 in southeast Kelowna will also be out and about on Thursday night, acting as extra eyes and ears for frontline officers. They will also be hanging out hot chocolate and candy on the corner of Spaarpak Road and Kimatouche Road.
To help keep the tricks limited and the treats in abundance, here is a simple list of quick tips to ensure your Halloween is spooktacular:
Choose a costume that is bright, visible and without long trailing fabric that could catch a flame.
Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks so cars can easily see them.
Stick to the sidewalk and avoid jaywalking, even if the house across the road has really cool decorations.
Have an adult or an older teenager accompany young children trick-or-treating.
Keep all decorations away from open flames, especially dried flowers, crepe paper and cornstalks.
Use a battery-operated candle in your Jack-o-lantern.
Ensure costumes with fake weapons are easily identified as fake.
Check that a mask does not block the child’s vision or sightlines.
Teach children to stop, drop and roll if their costume catches fire.
Make sure all smoke alarms in the home are working.
Rick Euper, the fire and life safety educator and inspector with the Kelowna Fire Department, would also like to remind the community that firecrackers and recreational fireworks are not permitted within Kelowna.
“Not only can they be dangerous to an inexperienced operator and those observing, but they also pose a significant fire risk with surrounding trees, grasses and dry areas,” said Euper.
“It doesn’t take much for something to get out of hand.”
Have a safe and happy Halloween, everyone!
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