Prince George, B.C. – For children it’s one of the happiest times of the year – Halloween night.

But according to the Prince George RCMP – it’s not without its dangers – especially when it comes to road safety.

Corporal Craig Douglass says kids are twice as likely to be struck by a vehicle that night.

“Yes, and that makes sense. Obviously, there’s an abundance of children out on the road on Halloween.”

Consequently, he encourages those out trick or treating to wear reflective clothing or other kinds of signals to drivers that you’re out on the road.

On average, ICBC says 16 people are injured in 65 crashes on Halloween in the north central region of the province.

Prince George Fire Rescue says another area of concern tonight is the safe use of fireworks. Chief fire prevention officer Marcel Profeit says Halloween is one of three days of the year where they are permitted without a permit – the other days being Canada Day (July 1^st) and New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31^st).

He says there are several ways to use them safely.

“First, in the fire prevention business we’re not really big fans of fireworks so we’d prefer if people didn’t use them but obviously, there are groups and individuals who will.”

For those who do he recommends taking the following precautions:

• Have an adult do it. You must be 18 years old or older to use fireworks.
• Follow the instructions and give yourself a lot of space to set them off.
• Don’t shoot fireworks into your neighbour’s yards or point them at people or pets.
• Set them off at least 20 metres away and upwind from the direction the fireworks are shooting.
• Never hold fireworks in your hand when you’re lighting them and always make sure to put a fire out.
• Don’t relight a dud and wait 30 minutes before disposing of it.
• Use a lighting stick, don’t use matches or a lighter in your hand to light them.
• You can view more Halloween safety tips by clicking here.

For those still wanting to enjoy some fireworks tonight, there will be a firework display at Lac Des Bois Elementary.

The event is free, but donations of food or money to the local food bank will be accepted. The event runs from 7:15-7:45 p.m.

The College Heights Community Association will also be hosting their annual fireworks display outside College Heights Secondary starting at 8:15 p.m. sharp.