As Halloween approaches, Central Saanich police and the Central Saanich Fire Department are reminding residents to prioritize safety as festivities are underway and children start trick-or-treating in local neighbourhoods.
Police will be actively patrolling neighbourhoods and monitoring speed limits to ensure a safe environment for all trick-or-treaters. Drivers are asked to take extra care to look out for children at crosswalks and intersections.
Trick-or-treaters are reminded to plan their route, to use crosswalks, to check candy before consumption, to stay visible and to stay together. Additionally, the District of Central Saanich has reflective arm bands for local families to help increase road safety ahead of Halloween.
“We want everyone to enjoy the festivities of Halloween, but safety should always come first,” said Ian Lawson, Central Saanich Police Service’s Chief Constable, in a news release. “By following these tips and looking out for one another, we can ensure a safe and happy Halloween for our community.”
Special measures will be in place for the Tanner Road and Rodolph Road crosswalk where lights are currently out of service. The district says replacement lights have been ordered from the manufacturer and will be installed as soon as possible. In case the lights are not received before Halloween, a traffic control person will be stationed at the crosswalk between 5:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. to help trick-or-treaters cross safely.
BCAA also reminds drivers to slow down and drive with caution through residential areas, to use headlights not only at night, but at dusk and during the day if it’s rainy or visibility is reduced.
The Saanich Peninsula community will gather at Centennial Park for a bonfire and fireworks display, honouring assistant fire chief Forrest Owens. The bonfire will start at 7:30 p.m. with fireworks starting at approximately 8 p.m.
