On-base Trick–or-Treat Information and Safety Tips

  • Published
  • By 5th Security Forces Squadron
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Trick-or-treating hours in base housing are from 6 - 8 p.m., Oct. 31.

Every year, members of the security forces squadron roam the streets of base housing to provide safety for children and families who are out trick-or-treating.

While walking the streets, the security forces pumpkin patrol volunteers are watching for lost or hurt trick-or-treaters, any safety hazards, and to ensure drivers follow the rules of the road.

To help ensure we have another fun-filled, incident-free event, security forces offers the following safety tips:

DRIVERS

· Watch for children darting out from between parked cars.
· Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
· Enter and exit driveways carefully.
· If you are driving children, be sure they exit on the curbside, away from traffic.
· Do not wear your mask while driving.
· Watch for children in dark clothing.

TRICK-or-TREATERS

· An adult will be supervising the outing for children under age 12.
· Do not to eat any treat until you have an adult inspect it.
· Only fire-retardant materials should be used for costumes.
· Costumes should be loose, so warm clothes can be worn underneath.
· Costumes should not be so long that they are a tripping hazard. Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injuries on Halloween.
· Outfits should be made with light-colored materials. Strips of reflective tape should be used to make children more visible.
· Masks can obstruct a child's vision. Facial make-up is safer and more colorful.
· If masks are worn, they should have nose and mouth openings and large eye holes.
· Carrying flashlights will help children see better and be seen more clearly.
· Walk from house to house. Do not run. Do not cross yards and lawns where unseen objects or the uneven terrain can present tripping hazards.
· Walk on sidewalks, not in the street.

Senior Airman Tom Vann, from the 5th Security Forces Squadron, is the point of contact for Pumpkin Patrol. He can be reached at 723-4434 or at tom.vann@us.af.mil