Have a thrilling, safe Halloween!

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jannelle Dickey
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Halloween is the time of the year when everyone enjoys a good scare, but not from the potential dangers children and adults face on this frightful night.   

To ensure a fun and safe experience, parents should take measures before and after their children go out and collect goodies.

Trick-or-treating hours for Barksdale will be Oct. 31 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; the Pumpkin Patrol will be ensuring the safety of children around the base by patrolling throughout housing.

"The patrol puts more eyes out there to help detect violators and hazards to trick-or-treaters and enforce rules to keep the environment safe," said Staff Sgt. Brandon Anthis, 2nd Security Forces Squadron NCO in charge of police services. "If residents are participating in base housing trick or treating, please have your porch lights on during designated hours."

Anthis also recommends wearing bright, reflective clothing or materials to increase visibility.

"During the hours of darkness, make sure you have some sort of illumination for your children such as a reflective safety belt, glow sticks or flashlights," he said.

A well-lit environment and visible children can reduce the after dark safety risks.

"Dangers could vary from traffic safety to simple hazards in the street like unseen debris and glass to extreme cases like potential kidnapping," said Tech. Sgt. David Watters, 2nd Bomb Wing Safety NCO in charge of inspections.

Parents should take children into safe neighborhoods and those ages 10 and younger are required to be supervised by an adult.

"Children should look both ways before crossing the street, not enter other people's houses, travel in groups of two or more and consider carrying a cell phone or other means of communication," said Watters.

Motorists should also be courteous and very cautious as well on this holiday.

"We encourage all motorists, if possible, to refrain from driving through the housing areas during the designated trick-or-treating hours," said Anthis. "Drive slowly and be extra aware because there will be a large number of children out."

However, preventive measures don't end once trick or treating is over.

"Parents should inspect all candy prior to children's consumption," said Anthis. "For adult Halloween parties, ensure designated drivers are appointed and available. If you're hosting a party, make sure everyone has a plan and don't let anyone drink and drive."

Everyone can have fun on Halloween without sacrificing safety by being cautious, having a wingman and supervising their children.

For more information on Halloween safety, contact the safety office at 456-5606, or for information regarding the Pumpkin Patrol and base housing trick-or-treating contact the Security Forces squadron at 456-2551.