HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- Halloween is a time of year when people of all ages dress up in costumes, go trick-or-treating, and indulge in free candy. However, it’s important to remember to take proper safety precautions.
To ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Halloween experience, the 75th Security Forces Squadron’s “Pumpkin Patrol” will be keeping a watchful eye during the Hill Air Force Base’s designated trick-or-treating hours of 4:30-9 p.m. on Oct.31.
While the Pumpkin Patrol provides an added level of security for children throughout the night, it’s important for parents and children to take responsibility for their own safety as well. Here are some simple guidelines to follow:
Costume
- Make sure your trick-or-treater can see clearly. Scary masks can sometimes make it difficult to see, so consider using face paint instead. Test the face paint first to ensure there are no allergic reactions.
- Wear light colors or place reflective tape over your costume so that other pedestrians or drivers can see you.
- Ensure that knives, swords, and other accessories are made from flexible material with no sharp edges.
If your costume has a long cape or you’re wearing a long dress, make sure it won’t make you trip and fall. You don’t want to spill all the candy you collected.
Parents and trick-or-treaters
- Walk, don’t run, from house to house.
- Always use sidewalks when available. If there is no sidewalk, be sure to walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
- Plot out a trick-or-treat map. Figure out which houses trick-or-treaters will go to and how long you think they’ll be gone.
By following these simple guidelines, Halloween is sure to be a fun and safe experience for everyone.