ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
As the wheel of the year turns, seasons change, October arrives and children get anxious. Halloween is whistling in the wind and concerns for holiday safety come to mind. Preparing your children for Halloween is an important task.
The Andrews Community will recognize Halloween on Wednesday, October 31 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Halloween may be a fun holiday for kids, but for parents, trick-or-treat time can be a concern.
The safety of children - whether they are out in the neighborhood or back at home with their gathered candy and treats - is important. Following these tips can make for a safer and more enjoyable night out on the town for our precious ghouls and goblins.
* Ensure costumes are flame-retardant, so the little ones are not in danger near lit candles and other fire hazards.
* Keep costumes short enough to prevent tripping and falling.
* Try to use make-up instead of masks. Masks can be hot, uncomfortable and even more importantly, they can obstruct a child's vision - a dangerous issue when children cross a street and walk up and down steps.
* Have children wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes.
* Trick-or-treaters should always be in groups, so they are not a target for kidnapping. Parents should accompany children.
* Make sure older children trick-or-treat with friends. You can even map out a safe route, so parents know where they'll be. Tell them to stop at only familiar homes where the outside lights are on.
* Try to get your children to trick-or-treat while it is still light outside. If it's dark, make sure they have a flashlight with them and pick a well-lit area.
* Make sure children know NOT to enter a stranger's house or car!
* Check out all treats at home in a well-lighted place.
* Children need to know not to eat their treats until they get home. One way to keep trick-or-treaters from digging in while they're still out is to feed them a meal or snack before they go out.
These are just a few things you can do to keep your children safe for Halloween. There is nothing more important than being prepared and knowing what to do should an unfortunate incident arise. Have a happy and safe Halloween! Should an incident occur notify Security Forces at 301-981-2001.
The 316th Security Forces will host the Pumpkin Patrol in all housing areas.
To ask questions concerning Halloween safety, or to volunteer for the Pumpkin Patrol, contact the 316th Security Forces Police Services Section at 301-981-8573 by Oct. 26 or send an e-mail to Senior Airman Lori White at lora.white@andrews.af.mil.