Your Halloween forecast and safety tips

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Today is Halloween, and ghosts and goblins are eagerly waiting to head out across the province this evening. Here is the forecast for 7:00 p.m. this evening.

St. John's: Showers and 3.

Marystown: Cloudy and 3.

Gander: Chance of flurries and 1

Grand Falls-Windsor: Chance of flurries and 0.

Port aux Basques: Cloudy periods and 3.

Corner Brook: Showers and 2.

St. Anthony: Mostly cloudy and 1.

Happy Valley-Goose Bay: Cloudy periods and minus 4.

Nain: Clear and minus 1.

Churchill Falls: Cloudy periods and minus 4.

Labrador City: Mostly cloudy and minus 3.

Here are some important safety reminders for parents, children and motorists.

For parents and children

Stay visible: Choose bright-coloured costumes or add reflective tape and glow sticks.
Use sidewalks: Walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
Cross safely: Use designated crosswalks and look both ways before crossing streets.
Stay together: Young children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Plan your route: Stick to familiar neighbourhoods and establish a return time.
Inspect treats: Check all candy and treats before children eat them. Discard anything that is unwrapped, damaged or suspicious.
Choose safe costumes: Make sure costumes fit properly to prevent trips and falls.
Avoid masks that obstruct vision: Use face paint where possible to ensure children can see clearly.

For motorists

Slow down: Reduce speed in residential neighbourhoods, particularly during peak trick-or-treating hours.
Watch for children: Children may suddenly cross the street or emerge from between parked vehicles.
Eliminate distractions: Put away mobile phones and keep your attention on the road.
Use extra caution: Be particularly careful when entering or leaving driveways and intersections.
Turn on headlights: Make it easier for pedestrians to see your vehicle.

For homeowners

Keep walkways, stairs and driveways clear of obstacles.
Ensure outdoor lights are working and entrances are well-lit.
Use battery-operated candles instead of open flames in pumpkins and decorations.
Keep pets secured and away from the front door to prevent unexpected encounters.
Remove decorations that could create tripping hazards.

A few additional reminders

Carry a flashlight or use a headlamp.
Make sure children know their home address and how to contact their parents.
Never enter a stranger's home or vehicle.
If children become separated from their group, they should approach a trusted adult or uniformed police officer for help.