Hello to Halloween: Safety tips for the season

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jessica Lockoski
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Young Team McConnell ghouls and gals who intend to trick-or-treat can collect goodies safely with a little help from parents and by following safety tips. Here are some Halloween safety tips provided by the Sedgwick County Sheriffs Office:

· Plan costumes that are bright and reflective and consider adding reflective tape or stripes to costumes and Trick-or-Treat bags for greater visibility.
· Secure emergency identification (name, address, and a phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire.
· Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic make-up and decorative hats as safer alternatives.
· When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.
· Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. Be certain such props do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
· Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for children and their escorts.
· Take an extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch or walkway.
· Children should accept candy only from the doorway and never enter a home. Also, never eat the candy until it has been inspected.
· Streets should be crossed only at corners or crosswalks.

Before nightfall on Halloween: 

· A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.
· Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.
· While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack O' Lantern, leave the carving to adults.
· Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you.
· Agree on a specific time when trick-or-treaters must return home.
· Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry cell phones for emergency phone calls.
· Adult partygoers should establish a designated driver. 


McConnell Halloween Happenings

Oct. 28 - Trick-or-treat parade
McConnell youths from the Airman and Family Readiness Center's Playgroup are invited to trick-or-treat in costume, beginning at 10 a.m. at Building 750, the finance building, and will travel to Building 795, the military personnel section and Building 732, the AFRC.

Oct. 30 - Neewollah Ball
The 22nd Force Support Squadron is hosting a Neewollah Ball Oct. 30 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Robert J. Dole Center ballroom.

There will be food, games, prizes and a seasonal costume contest.

Team McConnell members may purchase tickets in advance for $3, or at the door for $5. Admission is free for children age 4 and younger.

To order tickets in advance, call 759-6023.

Oct. 31 - Horror in the Storm Cellar
Team McConnell members are invited to the Storm Cellar sports bar and club at 8.p.m. for a seasonal costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes.

For more information, call 316-759-4330.

Oct. 31--Trick-or-treat in base housing
McConnell youths and parents can trick-or-treat in Southwind base housing Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m.