Ottawa Police are asking trick-or-treaters to be "responsible citizens" this Hallowe'en night.
In a late afternoon press release, Police say recent headlines about clowns scaring people around the world could attract more attention this year. They say they've had 26 calls for service related to "possible clown sightings" since October 1.
Police say there are extra patrols on Hallowe'en night, looking out for mischief, bylaw infractions, and criminal offenses like assault or theft, and they encourage the public to report suspicious persons, even on Hallowe'en.
Trick-or-treaters are also being advised that costumes involving accessories that could "cause residents alarm" should also be avoided. Guns were specifically mentioned, and Duty Inspector Carl Cartright warns, "These will be looked upon as a threat and police will respond accordingly. Consider that you may be taking emergency resources away from someone who truly needs help."
Cartright also warns it's likely those scary clown costumes could prompt more calls to police, too.
"We want people to have fun but do it responsibly," Cartright said in the release.