Volunteers needed for Halloween Watch Program

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Matthew Plunkett and Staff Sgt. Paul Cram
  • 66th Security Forces Squadron Police Services Section
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  It's that time of the year again when children dress up as their favorite super heroes, fairy-tale princesses, and ghoulish monsters and go door-to-door for sweet, tasty treats.

It's also that time of year when parents should be especially aware of the dangers associated with Halloween. The 66th Security Forces Squadron will be hosting this year's "Halloween Watch Program."

Here are a few safety tips to share with your children this Halloween:

· Have your child carry or wear something lit (flashlight, glow bracelet, or flashing attire for visibility)
· Plan your route in advance and discuss them with your children, be familiar with in-place hazards
· Require well-fitting shoes to be worn, preferably sneakers and avoid costumes that drag on the ground
· Be sure your child's mask allows for full visibility and proper breathing, check for proper sizing
· Think "practical" over "cute" when picking a trick-or-treat goody bag or container, backpacks work best
· Parents should inspect treats for any signs of tampering before allowing children to consume them

Hanscom trick-or-treating will take place Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Security forces personnel and volunteers will patrol on foot to ensure safe and incident-free trick-or-treating for children on the installation. Security forces also encourage all residents and visitors operating a vehicle on base to drive slowly - you never know what "creature" may suddenly cross your path.

In addition, security forces will be handing out glow sticks to ensure children are highly visible. Children are also encouraged to carry flashlights.

Suspicious activity reporting should be reported to the Law Enforcement Desk at 781-225-5000 or by calling the Crime Stop Hotline at 781-225-6920.

If interested in volunteering, contact Tech. Sgt. Matthew Plunkett at 781-225-6592 or by email at hanscom.police.services@us.af.mil.