Parkland Ambulance has advice for staying safe this Halloween. (File Photo/paNOW Staff)

By Rob Mahon

Halloween Safety Tips

Parkland Ambulance offers safety advice ahead of Halloween

Oct 28, 2022 | 12:00 PM

Halloween is soon upon us, and if the weather forecast is accurate, it might be one of those years where you don’t have to design your costume to fit over a parka. There are still some things your local paramedics would like you to keep in mind, however.

As the weekend leading up to Halloween begins, Parkland Ambulance is offering reminders for trick-or-treaters, drivers, and homeowners ahead of the big night.

“The first thing, most importantly, is bright and light,” said Lyle Karasiuk, director of public affairs with Parkland Ambulance. “Light in two ways, one so that I can be seen, but also light enough that if it is happening to go over a jacket, that we can slip it on safely.”

A lot of Halloween costumes also feature masks, and some of them are perfect for tying the costume together. But Karasiuk had a piece of advice for people as they roam the streets trick-or-treating, advice that may seem odd to hear after the last two years of pandemic conditions.

“We want to remind folks to stay away from masks, especially stuff that kind of obscures your vision, especially when kids are trying to cross the street to be with their friends,” said Karasiuk. “Try to leave the props at home, whether it’s a cane or a sword, it’s one more thing that’s a trip hazard.”

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

As for people handing out candy, making sure all the decorations are well-lit is an important piece of the work. So far, Karasiuk has seen lots of houses that are doing a creative job of making their yards as eerie as possible.

“Lots of spooky homes in and around the area that we’ve seen,” Karasiuk said. “Good for people that are out decorating, but all of those decorations need to be coming down, so please make sure you’re doing so safely.”

Trick-or-treating isn’t just limited to after-dinner either, as some kids will head out almost as soon as school wraps up. With that in mind, Karasiuk reminded drivers to show extra caution right away once school lets out.

“Please slow down in residential areas and watch for those little ghosts and goblins that are crossing,” Karasiuk said.

Karasiuk added it’s safest to keep pets away from the front door if you’re hosting trick-or-treaters, for both the pet and those coming to your doorstep. He also said if you’re driving around, whether it’s to a costume party or from a job that allows you to dress up, don’t wear a mask while driving.

—-

rob.mahon@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RobMahonPxP