Tips from Transit Police on how to stay safe this Halloween night

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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – SkyTrain and buses will likely be packed with superheroes, movie characters, goblins, and ghouls tonight. There are things you should keep in mind if you’re on transit this evening.

Often our alter-egos for Halloween night include some kind of prop, but Transit Police say certain props have been their biggest concerns over the last few years. They warn replica handguns, hatchets, knives and swords can create problems.

If your costume includes one of these, they’re asking you to ask yourself whether there’s a chance your prop could be mistaken for the real thing. And if someone does think it’s real, how would your safety be at risk?

If you have any doubt about the prop, it’s best to leave it at home.

“We’ve had situations where we had a man dressed up as a pirate who was carrying an actual machete with him,” says Ann Drennan with Transit Police. “He had no ill-intent with the machete, but it was a real machete and people were very concerned and called the police.”

“Of course, our response has to be a certain way because the man’s armed et cetera and things can easily get out of hand. As well we’ve had some people with replica handguns; these guns look very real, and again, people get very concerned and we get calls and have to respond accordingly. So we would ask people using transit that have props like this first of all, not to use a real machete or real gun of course, but to keep these replica items out of site while they’re using transit just so that nobody else gets freaked out while they’re on the system.”

“We’re not necessarily anticipating more problems, but we have to be realistic about the fact that it is a Friday night and a lot of people will be going to Halloween parties. So, there is the potential for more drinking, and with consumption of alcohol sometimes come additional problems like fights and that kind of thing,” says Drennan.

When you’re out and about, you’ll want to make sure you’re seen. Wear bright costumes or things that will glow or reflect light, and always be aware of who and what is around you; Try not to become engrossed in your smartphone or other mobile device.

Try to use face paint or makeup rather than a mask. But if you have to wear a mask, make the eyes larger so you can see better, and keep it off your face when in train stations and other busy areas.

If you’re in a group, agree on a place to meet if you get separated. Make sure you have a safe ride home planned.

Transit Police recommend downloading the free OnDuty app to check scheduled bus times.

You can also check @TransitPolice and @TransLink on Twitter for updates.

Finally, remember to keep liquor closed. If you’re caught drinking in public, a $230 ticket may be enough to spoil your Halloween.

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