ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Members from the 28th Security Forces Squadron recognized National Crime Prevention Month and celebrated the practice of crime prevention with different events throughout the month of October.
The 28th SFS kicked off the month’s events with “superhero day,” where police officers and Airmen alike dressed up as a variety of comic book favorites and walked through base housing handing out candy to children. In addition to superhero day, the squadron also hosted a Weapons Display and Red Suit demonstration, which taught families how to properly defend themselves from possible attackers.
According to the National Crime Prevention Council, the NCPC designated October as Crime Prevention Month in 1984 as a way to celebrate and recognize the practice of crime prevention while promoting awareness of issues such as victimization, volunteerism and creating safer communities.
“The events during the month of October were put in place in order to engage the community in Crime Prevention Month,” said Tech. Sgt. Nathan Patterson, the non-commissioned officer of police services assigned to the 28th SFS. “Getting information to the public about how to protect themselves and keep their families, homes and neighbors safe is priority in the law enforcement community.”
Patterson mentioned that basic safety precautions are key in stopping a crime before it happens, such as ensuring doors are locked when exiting a vehicle or home, bringing toys and valuables inside the house when leaving or going to bed and reporting suspicious behavior.
“[Crime Prevention Month] allows the community to get engaged with practicing prevention techniques,” he said. “We want to make the education process an enjoyable experience for everyone. I couldn't ask for a more rewarding task. Seeing the faces on the kids while they experience interacting with superheroes and seeing the weapons and the 'Red Suit' was such an enjoyable time.”
To wrap up the month’s events, the 28th SFS are holding a raffle to offer children the chance to participate in a “Cop for a Day” event from Nov. 24 to 28, where the winner will get to ride-along with SFS personnel.
For more information on this event, contact Staff Sgt. Cynthia Bustos-Santaella, the noncommissioned officer in charge of plans and programs assigned to the 28th SFS, at (605) 385-6041.