Keep children safe this Halloween

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rachelle Elsea
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Since the late 1950's, children across America have been participating in the age-old Halloween tradition of trick-or-treating and this year will be no different.

Although it seems like a harmless custom, it may come with several safety risks. It is important to educate parents and children on the dangers that may be overlooked.

Tyndall safety officials advise to have fun, but be aware of surroundings.

"With the concern for safety, many churches, community centers and in some states, the malls have opened their doors to trick or treaters," said Master Sgt. Roderick Walker, 325th Fighter Wing ground safety. "So those places are good. But, strolling through the neighborhood is still great and as safe. Just select houses that seem inviting for trick or treaters... those with the lights on, no fences, no dogs in the yard and yards that are free from junk that could cause injuries."

They also offer advice on visibility.

"Have children hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see them and others see them or use glow sticks," said Technical Sgt. Jared Stonecipher, 325th FW ground safety. "The name of the game is visibility during hours of darkness. You may also fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you."

Sergeant Walker also suggests holding hands, looking both ways before crossing the road and walking in groups.

"Never let them go into a stranger's home," said Sergeant Stonecipher. "Make sure they are wearing well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls. They should always walk in groups or with a trusted adult. Always WALK and don't run from house to house. Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe."

Let your children know not to cut through back alleys and fields if they are out alone, he added.

"Make sure they know to stay in populated areas and not to go off the beaten track," Sergeant Stonecipher said. "Let them know to stay in well lighted areas with lots of people around. Explain to them why it can be dangerous for kids not to do this. If they are going out alone, they are old enough to know what can happen to them in a bad situation and how to stop it from happening."

After the trick-or-treating has concluded there are still additional steps to keep children safe.

"Everyone should always inspect their Halloween treats, especially the parents of younger kids," said Sergeant Walker. "Throw away any items where the wrapper shows signs of tampering and discolorations to treats."

"Instruct your children not to eat any treats until they bring them home to be examined by you," Sergeant Stonecipher said. "This way you can check for any problem candy and get the pick of the best stuff! Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers. Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them."

He also suggests limiting the amount of treats you eat. Remember Halloween is fun, tummy aches are not.

If trick-or-treating on base, there will be volunteers posted in base housing to help with Halloween safety.

"The Goblin Patrol is an extra set of eyes and ears for the community police," said Juan Diaz, 325th Security Forces Squadron assistant of community police. "We usually have 25 to 30 volunteers posted throughout the seven different housing areas."

To sign-up to be a Goblin Patrol volunteer, call (850) 283-9941. Base housing trick-or-treating will take place from 5:30 pm. through 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31.