28 SFS, Veterinary Services stress Halloween safety

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Abigail Klein
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  As Ellsworth prepares for Halloween, residents are reminded by 28th Security Forces Squadron and Ellsworth Veterinary Services to enjoy the holiday, but also to remember that safety is the primary focus of the night, especially when involving small children and pets.

One of the safety measures the wing has in place for children on the night of Halloween is "Pumpkin Patrol," which is conducted by 28 SFS. This group will patrol Ellsworth on Halloween between the hours of 6 and 8 p.m. -- the designated hours for trick-or-treating on base.

"The 'Pumpkin Patrollers' are there to make sure no one is acting unsafe or doing anything which would take away from their trick-or-treating fun," said Staff Sgt. Benjamin Pieta, 28 SFS element leader. "We [28 SFS patrollers] will be there to further ensure their safety."

Following simple safety procedures on Halloween is also important for trick-or-treaters, Sergeant Pieta said. These include: 

· children should not trick-or-treat without adult supervision
· trick-or-treaters should bring a flashlight, glow stick or some kind of reflective garment to permit visibility during hours of darkness
· adults should inspect all candy that children receive
· parents and children must look both ways when crossing the street
· do not wear masks that impede your vision or make it difficult to breathe

Along with the safety of children, Ellsworth residents are reminded by members of Ellsworth Veterinary Services that pet safety is also important on Halloween.

"The best way to keep your pet safe is to keep it at home on Halloween," said Sharon Bolda, Ellsworth veterinary technician. "Wandering pets may be startled by noisy groups walking about on Halloween and might end up running too far from home to find their way back."

The constant flow of trick-or-treaters ringing the door bell is also a concern, particularly for dog owners, Mrs. Bolda said. Though the trick-or-treaters are harmless, dogs may resent the perceived intrusion of strangers into their territory. In order to allow dogs to remain calm through the night, owners are advised to keep their dogs in separate rooms or kennels within sight and away from the door.

Owners of black cats are strongly advised to leave their pet inside, Mrs. Bolda said. "The mythology relating black cats to witches may lead some people to do possible harm to the animal."

As for Halloween treats for pets, the American Humane Association warns owners not to treat their pets to candy, especially those containing chocolate. Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine, which can make pets very ill and possibly cause death if consumed in enough quantity, Mrs. Bolda said. Instead of candy, she recommends treating pets with dog biscuits or catnip toys.

Also, if pet owners decide to dress their animals in costumes, the American Humane Association advises checking the costume to see if it is safe for your pet and doesn't constrain their movement, hearing or ability to breathe. Also, make sure to review the costume for parts your pet could chew off and choke on, Mrs. Bolda said.

The safety measures noted by 28 SFS and Ellsworth Veterinary Services are meant to ensure the safety of those taking part in trick-or-treating and will allow children to enjoy the festivities without worrying parents or troubling pet owners, Sergeant Pieta said.

The Pumpkin Patrollers are still accepting any volunteers wishing to aide in patrolling Ellsworth on Halloween. For more information, contact Sergeant Pieta at (605) 385-4001, and for more information about pet safety, contact Sharon Bolda at (605) 385-1589.

For an alternative to the Halloween festivities, the Protestant Chapel Community at the Ellsworth chapel will be hosting a "Hallelujah Harvest" between 6 and 8 p.m. For more information contact Yvonne Gomez, Protestant religious services coordinator, at (605) 484-4512.