Tips for a safe Halloween

  • Published
  • By 341st Security Forces Squadron personnel
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  It's that time of year again when all the ghost and goblins are preparing to go out and frighten the neighborhood. Halloween is the one time of the year when children get a chance to become who they want to be, to dress up and have fun. 

This year, as in the past, the 341st Security Forces Squadron will be hosting the "Halloween Foot Patrol" in each of the housing areas. This event will ensure Malmstrom's children have a safe Halloween by placing responsible adult volunteers in a position to deter crime while the children are out having their fun.

Here are some basic safety rules to follow:
· Children should carry a flashlight or wear a brightly colored costume.
· Young children should be escorted by an adult. They should also know their name, address and phone number in the event they get separated and become lost.
· Older children should stay in groups if no adults are present. Parents should also be aware of the route their children will be taking.
· Remind children of road safety rules. Do not criss-cross the road - go up one side of the road and back down on the other. Always look both ways before crossing and never cross between parked cars.
· Explain to children the difference between tricks and vandalism.
· Children should never eat any treats until parents have had a chance to go through and inspect them. Parents should look for tampering of packages and discard any they believe are unsafe.
· Remind children that not everyone celebrates Halloween and to avoid homes that have their lights off.

For people giving treats out this year, here are some suggestions to follow:
· Turn your porch light on. Not only will it signify that you are handing out treats, but will also provide a lit area to help prevent injuries.
· Clear your drive and walkways, remove any obstacles.
· Position pumpkins with candles in them in an area that is safe, where children will not trip on them. Consider using flashlights instead of candles.
· If you plan on dressing-up to greet the tricksters, remember that some younger. children may be frightened by your costume. Try to avoid scaring small children.

Designated "Trick-or-Treat" hours for Halloween this year are from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31.