TORONTO, Oct. 29 /CNW/ - The McGuinty government wants your family to
have a safe and happy Halloween. The tips below are offered to help keep your
children safe during this exciting time.
"Halloween is a great time for many children," said Dr. Marie
Bountrogianni, Minister of Children's Services. "It is also a time when it is
important to remember safety rules, especially when families are out trick or
treating."

Tips for safe costumes:

- Use costumes with bright fabrics and decorate costumes with reflective
tape. Flashlights also help drivers see children.
- Make sure that costume and shoes fit properly.
- All costume accessories should be made of soft, flexible material and
should not have any sharp edges.
- Consider using face paint or make-up instead of a mask.

Tips for safe trick or treating:

- Use flashlights or glow sticks in your pumpkins and other decorations,
rather than candles.
- An adult should accompany children when trick or treating.
- Encourage children to walk, not run, from house to house and stay on
the sidewalk.
- Stay in well lit areas and only visit homes that have their outside
lights turned on. Children should never go inside homes.
- Tell children to bring their treats home before eating anything and
make sure you inspect all the treats before your children eat any
candy. Be sure to discard any treats that are not wrapped, or are in
torn or open packages.

Tips for safe driving on Halloween:

- Be very careful when driving. Remember that children are excited and
may forget safety rules.
- When driving in areas with children, slow down and watch for them.

"Let's work together to make sure that everybody is safe on Halloween,"
said Minister Bountrogianni.

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