Halloween safety tips Published Oct. 21, 2010 By Tech. Sgt. Bill Richardson 2nd Bomb Wing Safety Office BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- It's that time again to prepare for the ghouls, goblins and ghosts that surround your neighborhood in a sugar-induced feeding frenzy. As most of us know, this is an exciting day for your children and some adults who are kids at heart. However, before the sugar rush sets in and the tummies start hurting, there are a few things to take into consideration to make your trick-or-treat outing more enjoyable. While planning your trick-or-treating adventures remember to: carry a flashlight; walk, don't run; stay on sidewalks -- if there is not a sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic obey traffic signals; stay in familiar neighborhoods; don't cut across yards or driveways; make sure costumes don't drag on the ground; shoes should fit even if they don't go with your costume; avoid wearing masks while walking from house to house; wear clothing with reflective markings or tape; approach only houses that are lit; and do not approach animals you don't know. Even if you are a seasoned veteran or a first time trick-or-treater, the following list should help you along the way: someone in the group should carry a cell phone to call home or 911; young children of any age should be accompanied by an adult; if you buy a costume, look for one made of flame-retardant material; older children should know where to reach you and when to be home; know where they're going to be; and although tampering is rare, tell children to bring the candy home to be inspected before consuming anything. By keeping these ideas in mind, you and your family will no doubt have a successful Halloween outing.