Little trick-or-treaters will be rushing door-to-door today in search of Halloween treats, but parents, children and motorists are being reminded to be safe this Halloween.
CAA Saskatchewan is reminding trick-or-treaters and drivers to stay alert and stay safe this Halloween. Motorists and children need to watch out for each other.
Motorists, when driving on Halloween night, slow down and watch for excited trick-or-treaters who will be darting through neighbourhoods. Drivers are encouraged to slow down to at least 10 kilometers per hour below the speed limit in residential areas. Costumes are always exciting and fun to wear, but it’s recommended that parents help choose costumes that don’t obstruct their children’s vision and hearing.
Also check the length of costumes to avoid tripping and encourage children to wear bright or light colours with reflective markings to be seen more easily.
“For adult partygoers, CAA reminds drivers to avoid taking short cuts through residential areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be and to be extra aware of children crossing the street,” said Christine Niemczyk, Director of Communications. “And, of course, please don’t drink and drive or allow others to do so. Always ensure you have a safe ride home.”
Other safety tips for Halloween include:
Trick-or-treat in groups. Have an adult or older teen accompany younger children.
Carry a flashlight.
Plan a route through familiar neighbourhoods with well-lit streets, and make sure your parents know where you will be.
Cross the street only at corners, never between parked cars or in the middle of the block, and look both ways and listen before crossing.
If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far off the road as possible.
Never enter a stranger's house, even if you're invited.
St. John Ambulance is also hoping everyone has a safe and spooktacular Halloween. Young children are prone to choking and candy is a prime culprit that could cause a blockage of the airway. Here are a few tips to help if someone is choking.
If the blockage of the airway is mild, the casualty should be able to clear it; if it is severe they will be unable to speak, cough, or breathe.
Mild Blockage - Cough it out
Encourage them to cough. If the mild obstruction lasts for longer than a few minutes, get medical help.
Severe Blockage – Clutching at the throat, unable to cough, speak or breath
Give up to five sharp back blows between their shoulder blades with the heel of your hand
If the obstruction has not cleared, stand behind them and put both arms around the person level with the top of the hips
Clench your fist and place it above the navel
Grasp your fist firmly with your other hand
Pull sharply inwards and upwards until the obstruction is relieved
If the person goes unconscious, help them to the floor and immediately call 911 for emergency help.
St. John Ambulance reminds that these hints are no substitute for thorough knowledge of first aid. St John Ambulance holds first aid courses throughout the year in a location near you. Visit www.sja.ca/sk for more information on upcoming classes.
