Kelowna RCMP reminds residents to celebrate Halloween safely

October 29, 2026 - Kelowna, BC, British Columbia
From: Kelowna RCMP

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As ghosts, goblins, and superheroes prepare to hit Kelowna's streets, the Kelowna RCMP is reminding residents to plan ahead, stay alert, and help make Halloween a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Kelowna RCMP frontline officers, with support from specialized and plainclothes units, will be out in the community working to keep the community safe on Halloween night. To help support the increased calls for service typically seen during the festivities, additional officers will be deployed across the city, focusing on pedestrian safety, traffic enforcement, and responding to incidents as neighbourhoods become busier with trick-or-treaters and families enjoying the evening.

"Halloween should be about costumes, treats, and making memories with family and friends. Taking a few extra precautions, such as making sure children are visible, staying together, and paying attention when crossing the street, can make a big difference," says Corporal Steven Lang, Kelowna RCMP Media Relations Officer. "We're asking everyone to look out for one another, so Halloween remains a safe and enjoyable night across our community."

Fireworks

While fireworks and firecrackers may seem like part of the Halloween tradition for some, they are not permitted in Kelowna. Unless you are a Government of Canada-licensed fireworks supervisor conducting an approved display, fireworks should be left out of your Halloween plans.

Under the City's Life and Safety Bylaw No. 10760, the sale, possession, and use of fireworks and firecrackers are prohibited within Kelowna. The RCMP, Kelowna Fire Department, and City Bylaw Services all enforce the bylaw, and violations may result in fines.

If fireworks are being set off in your neighbourhood, residents can report the activity to the Kelowna Fire Department at 250-469-8577 or City Bylaw Services at 250-469-8686.

Road Safety Reminder

Halloween is one of the busiest evenings of the year for pedestrians. With excited children focused on collecting treats and visiting decorated homes, drivers are reminded to slow down, stay alert, and be prepared for the unexpected.

Children may cross the street suddenly or emerge from between parked vehicles. Motorists should use extra caution near intersections, crosswalks, and residential streets where pedestrian traffic is at its highest.

Make a Safety Plan for Children

A little planning before heading out can help make the evening safer and less stressful for everyone.

Parents and caregivers should discuss what to do if children become separated from their group, including identifying a designated meeting place and knowing how to contact a trusted adult in an emergency.

Older children who are trick-or-treating without an adult should travel in groups, stick to familiar neighbourhoods, and have an established route, curfew, and a way to communicate with their parents or guardians.

Costume Safety

Whether your child is dressed as a superhero, princess, firefighter, or favourite movie character, visibility is key.

Choose costumes that are bright, reflective, and easy to see after dark. Reflective tape, glow sticks, or a flashlight can help trick-or-treaters remain visible to drivers and other pedestrians.

Face paint is recommended instead of masks, as masks can obstruct vision and make it more difficult to safely navigate roads, driveways, and sidewalks.

Costumes should also fit properly and avoid long or flowing material that could create a tripping hazard.

Celebrate Responsibly

For those attending parties or gatherings, plan ahead if alcohol or other intoxicating substances will be part of the celebration. Arrange for a designated driver, use a ride-sharing service, or make other transportation plans before heading out.

The Kelowna RCMP also encourages residents to be considerate of their neighbours, keep noise levels reasonable, and report suspicious activity when necessary.

Whether you're filling a candy bag, handing out treats at the front door, or driving through your neighbourhood, we all play a role in making Halloween a safe, fun, and memorable night for everyone.

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