As Torontonians raid their storage closets to retrieve their children's favorite Halloween costumes, Safe Kids Canada is reminding parents not to forget to arm their young ones with safety tips before they go out trick-or-treating.
Pamela Fuselli, executive director of Safe Kids Canada, says ensuring kids' safety as they travel door to door to collect candy from friends and neighbors requires a commitment from parents.
"An important first step is to teach your kids how to be safe pedestrians," said Fuselli. "Practice the safety rules with them and set a good example by reinforcing safe behaviour year round. Drivers also play a role, by slowing down on the roads and driving the speed limit."
Some of the things parents should teach their kids is always stopping at street corners, using crosswalks and looking both ways before crossing the street. In addition, parents should emphasize the importance of their kids walking on sidewalks so they stay as far off the road as possible.
Safe Kids Canada also says moms and dads should make sure their children's costumes are brightly colored so drivers can easily see them.