As Halloween approaches, Surrey Police Service (SPS) wants to remind everyone to have fun and stay safe, while celebrating, trick-or-treating or driving this spooky season. 

We are sharing safety reminders for homeowners, trick-or-treaters and drivers:

Homeowners  

• Turn on exterior lighting to welcome children. Ensure steps, entryway areas and pathways are well-lit for visibility to prevent falls.
• Keep pets indoors to protect them, and keep pets secured when trick-or-treaters arrive at the door.
• Keep the outdoors festive but ensure decorations don’t create obstacles in pathways that could cause trips or falls.  
• If you see any suspicious or unlawful activity, notify police through the non-emergency line.

Trick-or-Treaters

• Make sure children are visible – wear bright costumes, add reflective tape to coats or give them flashlights/glow sticks.
• Walk along sidewalks and cross the street at crosswalks or intersections. Do not run between parked cars onto the street or take shortcuts through alleys.
• Younger children should be accompanied by an adult, while older children should go out in groups. Advise kids of all ages to walk in well-lit areas to provide enhanced visibility for drivers.
• For older kids or teens who are carrying fake weapons, including swords, knives or guns, please ensure the items look fake as people won’t be able to tell the difference.
• Do not enter a stranger’s home to get treats.
• Do not eat candy until your treats have been checked by an adult. Discard any items that are not in original packaging, look suspicious or look like they may have been tampered with.
• Plan your route – families should discuss the route with children and set a return time.  

Drivers

• Slow down and be alert – Halloween is a busy night with more foot traffic in residential areas. Be aware of an influx of children, adults and groups of teens trick-or-treating. Children’s movements can be unpredictable, so reduce speed and watch out for kids on the road.
• Stay focused on driving and avoid distractions, including using your phone or engaging in other distractions like eating while you drive.
• Watch for pedestrians and be ready to stop at crosswalks and intersections.
• Plan ahead – if you’re going to a Halloween party, ensure you have a safe way home –use a designated driver, ride share, take a cab or use public transportation.

As a reminder, fireworks/pyrotechnic displays are only allowed if you have obtained a permit. If you have a fireworks and firecrackers complaint, please call the City of Surrey Bylaws at 604-591-4370. More information can be found here: Fireworks & Pyrotechnics | City of Surrey.

Surrey Police Service wishes everyone a happy, safe and fun Halloween! If you see something that is suspicious or criminal in nature, please contact the SPS non-emergency line at 604-599-0502. If there is an emergency, please call 9-1-1.