Despite a rainy evening on October 31, families filled the streets for trick-or-treating while first responders maintained a visible presence in neighbourhoods. Squamish RCMP and local emergency services said they worked together to ensure a safe Halloween across the community this year, though there were 23 calls to police.
According to the Squamish RCMP, the coordinated safety effort involved Squamish Fire Rescue, Squamish Nation, BC Ambulance, the Conservation Officer Service, and School District 48. Planning began about six weeks before Halloween to establish clear communication among all agencies and address safety concerns proactively, Squamish RCMP said in a news release.
Throughout the night, RCMP officers responded to 23 official calls for service, including reports of assault, fireworks bylaw complaints, disturbances, and impaired driving. Officers also engaged with large groups of youth in the Brackendale area regarding fireworks and gatherings.
“There was a substantial police presence in the Squamish community and surrounding area, and the collaboration with our Squamish first responders and School District 48 was instrumental in identifying and addressing issues early and ensuring public safety,” said Staff Sergeant Sascha Banks. “Overall, it was a safe and successful night from our perspective, which was a step in the right direction from the past few years.”
The RCMP described the evening as largely positive, crediting teamwork among agencies for reducing incidents and maintaining community safety during one of the busiest nights of the year.
That is an absolute joke. It was not safe by any means or a success. They hid in peoples yards when they saw cop cars. Made a mess with bottles and garbage for people to clean up. Fire crackers being thrown at people including kids. Were they walking the streets or hiding in cars? Cars that were seen and gave enough time to hide. The only positive was the kids didn’t cause chaos at a school like last year but to say it was safe? Kids are going to be scared to go out next year. They tried but they need to do a million times better. Have more accountability for kids and for parents letting their kids run wild. Otherwise it will continue.