Access Communications and CAA Saskatchewan want to keep trick-or-treaters safe this Halloween season.

For the 27th year, Access Communications announced that they would be hitting the streets in 11 communities as a part of the safety awareness program Pumpkin Patrol.

“Halloween is a special night for family and friends to come together with their kids, share in some fun, and, of course, collect some candy,” said President & CEO of Access Carmela Haines. “Through our pumpkin patrol program, we want to be visible to all the trick-or-treaters. If they see danger and need assistance, our staff and volunteers in our highly visible vehicles will be ready to assist by contacting local law enforcement.”

Pumpkin Patrol volunteers will be in Access Communications vehicles – equipped with a flashing orange light, glow-in-the-dark signage and a direct link to local law enforcement.

Volunteers will drive around neighbourhoods from 6 – 8:30 p.m. on October 31 in the Battlefords, Estevan, Martensville, Melville, La Ronge, Air Ronge, Regina, Warman, Weyburn, and Yorkton.

CCA Saskatchewan is offering safety tips for trick-or-treaters, drivers, and parents this Halloween to ensure everyone gets home safe.

Trick-or-Treating Safely:

• Choose costumes that are bright at night and don’t obstruct children’s vision and/or hearing.
• Use makeup instead of a mask to allow for better vision.
• Use reflective tape on costumes and have children carry a flashlight for easy visibility.
• Plan a route ahead of time and be alert to your surroundings.
• Trick or treating in groups and with an older sibling or adult is always a smart idea. It’s safer, and groups are more visible to drivers.
• When crossing the street, use designated intersections and crosswalks. Be sure to stop, look, listen, and think.
• Put cell phones and gaming devices away.

Parents and Drivers:

• Avoid driving during peak trick-or-treating hours on Halloween night (5:00 to 8:00 p.m.).
• If you are driving and must drop off or pick up children, make sure you pull over into a safe zone and turn vehicle hazard lights on.
• Make sure your vehicle’s headlights are on. Communicate with other drivers by using your turn signals.
• Eliminate distractions – turn down music and put your cell phones away.
• When backing out of parking spaces or driveways, always watch for children.
• Slow down to at least 10 km below the speed limit when driving through school zones and residential areas.
• Watch out for excited children walking or running, as they may not be thinking about road safety.
• If you plan to party, put the keys away. Always plan a safe ride home.