Halloween safety Published Oct. 18, 2013 By 355 Security Forces Squadron 355 Mission Support Group DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, AZ -- Excitement is in the air and ghosts, ghouls, monsters and princesses will be out in mass, October 31, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.. Accidents and mishaps increase during this event. To prevent them use common sense, be aware of potential hazards, and take precautions. Halloween Costume Safety: · Wear flame retardant costumes. · Hem your costumes so you don't trip and fall. · Apply reflective tape to your Halloween costumes. · Avoid full-faced masks. Use make-up instead of masks so sight and hearing is not obstructed. · Wear comfortable, practical shoes. · Keep your costume away from candles. · Don't carry fake swords, guns, knives or similar accessories that look authentic. Make sure they're flexible and cannot harm anyone. Trick-or-Treating Tips: · Plan your route ahead of time. · If driving, pay special attention to kids running between or behind vehicles. · Don't drive distracted by trying to watch your kids and drive. Pull off to a safe place and monitor your kids as they go from house to house. · Trick or treat in familiar neighborhoods. · Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries and or glow sticks after dark. · Always trick-or-treat in groups accompanied by an adult. · Stay on the sidewalks and out of the streets. Cross only at intersections and designated crosswalks. · Walk, don't run. · Don't trample through flower beds and gardens. · Don't enter any house unless you know the people. · Don't approach unfamiliar pets or animals. · Don't cut across yards and stay out of backyards. · Always watch for cars backing up or turning. · Never accept rides from strangers. · Respect other people and their property. · Be polite and say "thank you." · Don't eat any candy until it's inspected for tampering by a parent. · Avoid candy that has loose wrappings, is unwrapped, has puncture holes or is homemade. · Report any suspicious or criminal activity to Security Forces at (520) 228-3200 or call 911. Halloween Party Tip: Using common sense can make a party a great one and avoid anything that may ruin it. For adult parties, keep an eye on the drinking and don't let it get out of hand. Take keys away from anyone that may be drinking. Have at least one person stay sober and offer to drive those people home who may be too intoxicated. If all else fails, contact AADD at (520) 850-2233. Have a fun-filled Halloween and remember to be safe!