Safety tips: Halloween and Diwali in Surrey and White Rock<\/p>\n
Published 2:30 pm Monday, October 26, 2026<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
Halloween falls on Saturday this weekend (Oct. 31), while Diwali will be celebrated on Nov. 8 this year. <\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
The City of Surrey<\/a>, City of White Rock<\/a>, Surrey Police Service <\/a>(SPS) and BC SPCA have shared tips to help residents enjoy the festivities while protecting their families, neighbours and pets. <\/p>\n Firework rules<\/p>\n According to the City of White Rock it is illegal to use fireworks without a permit. <\/p>\n The city warns that fireworks, including sparklers and firecrackers, can cause serious injuries and recommends attending professional displays instead. <\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n Keeping safe on Halloween<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n For homeowners: <\/p>\n \u2022 Keep exterior lights on and ensure steps, entryways and pathways are well-lit. For drivers:<\/p>\n \u2022 Slow down and watch for children and other pedestrians, particularly in residential neighbourhoods. For trick-or-treaters: <\/p>\n \u2022 Wear bright or light-coloured costumes, use reflective tape and carry a flashlight or glow stick to remain visible. 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. <\/p>\n Protecting pets and wildlife<\/p>\n Halloween can also be stressful for animals, with doorbells, loud noises, fireworks and unfamiliar decorations creating potential hazards. <\/p>\n The BC SPCA recommends taking steps to keep pets safe and comfortable throughout the celebrations. <\/p>\n \u2022 Keep candy out of reach. The BC SPCA warns that artificial spiderwebs and fake snow can entangle birds and other animals, potentially injuring their feathers and wings.<\/p>\n Residents are encouraged to keep these decorations indoors, where wildlife cannot become trapped. <\/p>\n BC SPCA also recommends pumpkins being brought inside once Halloween celebrations are over, as they can attract bears and other wildlife. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Keep pets indoors and secure them when opening the doors for trick-or-treaters.
\u2022 Keep decorations clear of walkways to prevent trips and falls.
\u2022 Report suspicious or unlawful activity to police through the non-emergency line. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions, including using a cellphone.
\u2022 Watch for pedestrians and be prepared to stop at crosswalks and intersections.
\u2022 Plan a safe ride home before attending a Halloween party. Options include a designated driver, taxi, rideshare or public transit. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Walk on sidewalks and crosswalks or intersections rather than running between parked cars or taking shortcuts through alleys.
\u2022 Ensure younger children are accompanied by an adult, while older children should travel in groups and stick to well-lit areas.
\u2022 Never enter a stranger\u2019s home to collect treats.
\u2022 Have an adult inspect candy before it is eaten. Discard treats that are unwrapped, suspicious or appear to have been tampered with.
\u2022 Plan a route ahead of time and establish a return time. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Create a calm environment for pets.
\u2022 Check identification such as microchips and tattoos to help lost animals.
\u2022 Outdoor decorations can also put wildlife at risk.<\/p>\n