Safety tips: Halloween and Diwali in Surrey and White Rock

Safety tips: Halloween and Diwali in Surrey and White Rock

Published 2:30 pm Monday, October 26, 2026

With Halloween and Diwali approaching, the City of Surrey and City of White Rock are reminding residents to celebrate safely. This includes taking precautions while trick-or-treating to following local fireworks regulations.

Halloween falls on Saturday this weekend (Oct. 31), while Diwali will be celebrated on Nov. 8 this year.

Both of these occasions bring opportunities for families and communities to come together and celebrate, but safety officials are reminding residents that fireworks, road safety and holiday decorations can pose risks to people and animals.

The City of Surrey, City of White Rock, Surrey Police Service (SPS) and BC SPCA have shared tips to help residents enjoy the festivities while protecting their families, neighbours and pets.

Firework rules

According to the City of White Rock it is illegal to use fireworks without a permit.

The city warns that fireworks, including sparklers and firecrackers, can cause serious injuries and recommends attending professional displays instead.

In Surrey, the sale, purchase and use of fireworks are prohibited without deferral certification and a valid permit from the Surrey Fire Service. Individuals under 18 are prohibited from possessing fireworks.

Violations can result in fines ranging from $400 to $50,000, with each day an offence occurs it is considered a separate violation, noted the City of Surrey website.

The website also details that during the lead up to Halloween and on Diwali, Surrey bylaw officers will be deployed in high-activity areas and work with police to respond to reports of illegal fireworks.

Residents who witness fireworks being used illegally can contact Surrey Bylaws at 604-591-4370. The City of Surrey noted that calling 9-1-1 is only for emergencies.

The BC SPCA also shared in a release that fireworks can frighten pets and wildlife, making it important for residents to consider the effects of celebrations beyond their own households.

Keeping safe on Halloween

In a 2025 release, Surrey Police Service (SPS) had recommended that homeowners, trick-or-treaters and drivers take precautions to help prevent injuries on Halloween night.

For homeowners:

• Keep exterior lights on and ensure steps, entryways and pathways are well-lit.
• Keep pets indoors and secure them when opening the doors for trick-or-treaters.
• Keep decorations clear of walkways to prevent trips and falls.
• Report suspicious or unlawful activity to police through the non-emergency line.

For drivers:

• Slow down and watch for children and other pedestrians, particularly in residential neighbourhoods.
• Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions, including using a cellphone.
• Watch for pedestrians and be prepared to stop at crosswalks and intersections.
• Plan a safe ride home before attending a Halloween party. Options include a designated driver, taxi, rideshare or public transit.

For trick-or-treaters:

• Wear bright or light-coloured costumes, use reflective tape and carry a flashlight or glow stick to remain visible.
• Walk on sidewalks and crosswalks or intersections rather than running between parked cars or taking shortcuts through alleys.
• Ensure younger children are accompanied by an adult, while older children should travel in groups and stick to well-lit areas.
• Never enter a stranger’s home to collect treats.
• Have an adult inspect candy before it is eaten. Discard treats that are unwrapped, suspicious or appear to have been tampered with.
• Plan a route ahead of time and establish a return time.

The City of White Rock also advises residents to skip houses that are not well-lit and use battery-operated candles rather than real flames in Halloween lanterns. Decorations should not block exits or escape routes.

Protecting pets and wildlife

Halloween can also be stressful for animals, with doorbells, loud noises, fireworks and unfamiliar decorations creating potential hazards.

The BC SPCA recommends taking steps to keep pets safe and comfortable throughout the celebrations.

• Keep candy out of reach.
• Create a calm environment for pets.
• Check identification such as microchips and tattoos to help lost animals.
• Outdoor decorations can also put wildlife at risk.

The BC SPCA warns that artificial spiderwebs and fake snow can entangle birds and other animals, potentially injuring their feathers and wings.

Residents are encouraged to keep these decorations indoors, where wildlife cannot become trapped.

BC SPCA also recommends pumpkins being brought inside once Halloween celebrations are over, as they can attract bears and other wildlife.

Read more about BC SPCA’s animal safety here.

Celebrating responsibly

Both Surrey and White Rock are encouraging residents to take precautions, follow local regulations and consider the safety of those around them.

With a little planning, families can enjoy Halloween and Diwali while helping keep neighbourhoods safe for residents, visitors, pets and wildlife.