IBC Top 10 tips to keep for a fun, safe Halloween

TORONTO, Oct. 28, 2015 /CNW/ - On Saturday night, neighbourhoods across Ontario will be bustling with the excitement of Halloween. Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) offers its Top 10 tips to help ensure the night is safe and fun for everyone.

"Halloween is an exciting time particularly for young children," said Doug DeRabbie, Director, Government Relations, Ontario, IBC. "Whether you're a motorist, a parent or a trick-or-treater, help keep our communities safe for everyone out celebrating."  

IBC's Top 10 tips for a fun, safe Halloween are:

1. If driving, stay well below the speed limit and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
   • If possible, avoid driving between 6 and 9 p.m., when most trick-or-treating takes place.
2. Pay extra attention to what is going on around you when driving.
   • Keep an eye out for children darting across the street, especially between parked cars.
   • When pulling in or out of driveways, stay alert to your surroundings.
3. Refrain at all times from using your cellphone while driving.
4. Equip your trick-or-treater with a flashlight.
5. Consider using makeup instead of a mask to ensure your child has a clear, unobstructed view.
   • If a mask is necessary, enlarge the eyes or while walking push the mask up.
6. Avoid costumes with dark colours or use reflective tape.
7. Accompany your child or, if she or he is old enough, make sure your child is with a group of responsible friends.
8. Plan a trick-or-treating route close to home and confirm a time of return.
9. Tell your children to only visit well-lit houses and never go inside.
10. Halloween isn't just for kids – if you are attending a party and plan to consume alcohol, arrange a ride home.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 118,000 Canadians, pays $6.7 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $48 billion.  

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Ontario or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

Image with caption: "IBC Top 10: Tips for a fun and safe Halloween (CNW Group/Insurance Bureau of Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20151028_C5694_PHOTO_EN_531534.jpg

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