Rainfall warning and Halloween safety: Police and ICBC urge extra caution across Metro Vancouver

A child in a red costume held an orange trick-or-treat bucket full of candy in this undated file image. (Charles Parker/Pexels.com)

A rainfall warning is in effect for parts of Metro Vancouver, just as families prepare to head out trick-or-treating Friday night.

Police and ICBC are reminding drivers, parents, and homeowners to take extra care — with heavy rain, darkness, and Halloween crowds combining to create potentially hazardous conditions.

Environment Canada says 50 to 80 millimetres of rain is expected for the North Shore (including North and West Vancouver) and Northeast Metro Vancouver (including Coquitlam and Maple Ridge), as well as southern Howe Sound and the southern Sunshine Coast.

Rain is expected to begin in the morning, intensify through the afternoon, and taper off late Friday evening.

Officials warn that “water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas” and that “visibility will likely be suddenly reduced at times.”

Drivers are advised to allow extra time for travel.

Police step up patrols across the region

The Surrey Police Service says it will have extra officers deployed Friday evening.

“Halloween is always busy — whether it’s a Sunday night, a Wednesday night or a Friday night,” said Sgt. Tige Pollock with the Surrey Police Service.

“We will have extra officers deployed, working with some of our community safety partners, with the city and bylaws to make sure that everybody has a safe and happy Halloween.”

Pollock added that the combination of excitement, darkness, and rain can make streets unpredictable.

“The biggest safety concerns for us are obviously pedestrian safety,” he said.

“We know that kids get very excited and they can sometimes forget where they are, and they might dash out between a car into the street.”

Pedestrian safety top of mind

Police are urging families to plan their routes in advance and make sure children are visible to drivers.

“We’re reminding children to wear bright clothes and reflective items on their clothing while they’re walking around,” said Pollock.

“We’re advising them that they should pre-plan a route with their family to make sure that everybody knows where they are and when they’re going to be home.”

He said children should not eat any candy until it has been checked by an adult, and should always cross at crosswalks rather than running between parked cars.

“We’d also like to remind drivers that it’s a very busy time of year and a busy night, so we’d ask them to be mindful of that and be prepared to stop at any intersections or lights or pedestrian crosswalks,” Pollock said.

ICBC: “Expect the unexpected”

ICBC says Halloween remains one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians — and poor weather only increases that risk.

“Well, I think it’s important that we understand that Halloween is such a fun time for so many of us, but it’s also a very unique time on our roads,” said Greg Harper, ICBC spokesperson.

“There’ll be lots of children out tonight, trick or treating, running around, maybe thinking more about treats than road safety. We’re just really urging drivers to drive with extra caution on Halloween.”

Harper said drivers should manage their speed, avoid distractions, and expect the unexpected.

“Keep your cell phone out of sight, out of mind,” he said.

“Even if you’re driving in an area you’re familiar with, there may be some kids in a spot you normally don’t see them because it is Halloween.”

“I think it’s important to manage your speed, to not be in a hurry, and to not try and pass vehicles — because vehicles may be stopped in front of you for a hazard in front of them. Just really take it easy. And if you don’t need to drive tonight, don’t do it.”

Homeowners asked to keep properties safe

Police are also reminding residents to make their homes safe and accessible for visitors.

“We’re asking homeowners to make sure that they turn on their outdoor lights so that people can see when they’re walking up to their home,” said Pollock.

“Also, make sure that their walkways are clear so that people can easily access their home.”

He added that pets should be kept indoors to avoid frightening trick-or-treaters, and that those setting off fireworks should follow local bylaws.

“If you do that, you could face fines,” Pollock said.

“We would encourage people to visit the City of Surrey bylaw website regarding fireworks and pyrotechnics.”

Planning a safe ride home

Both ICBC and police are reminding adults to make a plan before heading out to any Halloween parties.

“If you’re planning on celebrating or going to a Halloween party,” said Harper, “have a plan in place for a safe ride home. That means a designated driver, perhaps a taxi, ride-sharing, or public transit.”

Pollock echoed that message, saying officers will be watching closely for impaired and distracted driving.

“We will have extra officers out ensuring that everybody is obeying the law with regards to consuming alcohol and drugs and driving,” he said.

A call for patience and visibility

With heavy rain expected to reduce visibility across the region, police and ICBC say the message this year is simple: Slow down, be alert, and help everyone get home safely.

“Reflector tape is a great idea,” said Greg Harper.

“If you have a darker costume, just put a piece of reflector tape on there. That way, if a driver is approaching with the headlights on, it’ll be easier to see you.”