Pictured: Bayside District Crime Prevention Coordinator Sergeant Brendon Winslow. Photo by Ashleigh Howarth.
BY ASHLEIGH HOWARTH
Little goblins, ghosts and gremlins will soon be creeping through Bayside streets for the most ‘fang-tastic’ night of the year, with Queensland Police urging families not to let safety become the real fright this Halloween.
With trick-or-treaters hitting the streets and the Wynnum Halloween Festival bringing spooky fun to the bayside, police are encouraging locals to plan ahead, look out for one another and make sure everyone gets home safely.
Bayside District Crime Prevention Coordinator Sergeant Brendon Winslow said families should leave e-scooters, e-bikes, skateboards and bikes at home, with increased pedestrian and road traffic expected.
“It is very exciting to be heading out to trick or treat, and to attend the Halloween festival, but safety is paramount,” Sergeant Winslow said.
“With the extra pedestrian and road traffic on Halloween, it is safer to be travelling on foot.
“We are also reminding parents and carers to talk to children about road rules and ensure a trusted adult supervises them at all times. It’s also good to travel in groups, especially when visiting unfamiliar houses.”
Sergeant Winslow urged motorists to slow down and take extra care in suburban streets, particularly around dusk and in the evening when children can be harder to see.
Police are also reminding families to stick to familiar streets, visit homes that welcome trick-or-treaters, wear reflective clothing or carry a torch, and ensure costumes fit properly and allow children to see clearly. Treats should also be individually wrapped before being enjoyed.
Residents who don’t want trick-or-treaters can leave their lights off or display a ‘no trick-or-treaters’ sign, while trick-or-treaters are encouraged to respect those who aren’t participating.
“Halloween should be a safe and enjoyable time for everyone, and we want it to be memorable for families for all the right reasons,” Sergeant Winslow said.
