Get ready for Operation Pumpkin 2011 Published Oct. 13, 2011 By Staff Sgt. Irasema Reed 66th Security Forces Squadron HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Halloween can be a fun holiday for kids, but for parents, trick-or-treat time can be a little scary. Concerns about children's safety - whether they are out in the neighborhood or back at home with bountiful bags of goodies - can cast a spell on the evening's festivities. Hanscom trick-or-treating will take place Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. Following a few safety tips, along with the assistance of the 66th Security Forces Squadron, will ensure Halloween to be a "howling" good time for all in the Hanscom community. Some pointers for parents to help play it safe on Halloween are to make sure older kids go out with friends and younger kids should always be accompanied by an adult, and try to get children to trick-or-treat while it's still light out. If it's dark, make sure children are carrying a flashlight or glow stick. Security forces encourages all residents and visitors to Hanscom to especially drive slowly on this night - you never know what "creature" may suddenly cross your path. Lastly, everyone should report any suspicious or criminal activity to security forces at 781-377-2315. Community members can also call the Crime Stop hotline at 781-377-0881. The 66 SFS, along with volunteers, will patrol the housing community for this year's Operation Pumpkin to ensure the Halloween evening is a positive one. Anyone interested in volunteering for Hanscom's Operation Pumpkin may contact the Police Services section at 781-377-2635 or email hanscom.police.services@hanscom.af.mil by Oct. 27.