Halloween Safety Tips

Published Oct. 9, 2008
By Staff Sgt. Melissa Spoon
21st Security Forces Squadron

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- It's that time of year again - the time for good-natured scaring, dressing up and trick-or-treating. Halloween is here, and with that comes a responsibility to make sure children are as safe as possible. This takes mishap prevention - the key to which is operational risk management. Parents should make sure children are properly clothed and visible when they send them out trick-or-treating. Here are some helpful hints:

 Choose light-colored fabrics for greater visibility. If costumes include a black cape or something dark colored, use reflective tape or wear a reflective belt.

 Walk, don't run

 Stay in well-lit areas and in familiar neighborhoods

 Costumes that impede vision or the ability to walk can be dangerous - use well-fitting costumes with no mask. If children are wearing a mask, be sure it fits well and has large eye holes.

 Be on the lookout for unsafe behavior - excitement sometimes prevents children from exercising good judgment.

 Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks. Remind them to stay away from candles or other open flames. Real jack o' lanterns with candles are appropriately spooky but are also major hazards.

 Ensure props such as knives, swords and axes are made of flexible plastic or rubber.

 Homeowners should make sure the areas around their homes are free of clutter so people don't trip or get seriously injured when they are trick-or-treating. A child's safety is paramount; however, adults should also think ahead and have a plan before they go out for their Halloween festivities.

 Choose costumes that allow ample flexibility and movement.

 If driving to and from a Halloween party, don't wear a mask or other face coverings while driving.

 Ensure props, such as knives, swords and guns, are not real.

 If alcohol is going to be consumed, plan ahead; drink responsibly; use the buddy system.

 Don't leave animals in the yard; with trick-or-treaters coming and going throughout the neighborhoods, someone could get hurt.

Using these safety precautions can maximize participants' Halloween enjoyment. The 21st Space Wing safety team recommends good ORM to safely guide families in their Halloween celebrations. For further information on Halloween safety, call the 21st SW Safety Office at 556-4392.
(Information provided by the 21st Space Wing Safety Office)