ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- With Halloween fast approaching, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holiday. Between planning out costumes and thoughts of candy, it’s easy to forget one of the most important things about the holiday: staying safe.
Every year, new statistics are recorded that show the frightening possible outcomes of Halloween, including injuries and even deaths. To ensure members of team Ellsworth have a safe and fun Halloween night, Staff Sgt. Bradley Sutter, the noncommissioned officer in charge of safety investigations assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing, provided some helpful tips to keep your little ghouls and goblins safe.
“One of the biggest things that most people don’t think about is tripping and falling,” Sutter said. “Wearing a costume that restricts your movements, such as a long cape, dress or even a mask that obstructs vision can make you more apt to trip and fall.”
Sutter emphasized the biggest concern on base is being hit by a car. According to the National Safety Council, the month of October ranked second in the nation in motor vehicle deaths.
“If you’re going to be driving on Halloween night, make sure to be extra cautious,” Sutter said. “Be sure to be vigilant in keeping an eye out for trick-or-treaters and people crossing the street.”
Parents are also encouraged to have some type of reflective material on their children, such as on their candy bag or a visible part of the costume.
“As a parent, the safety of your children is paramount,” Sutter said. “It’s the parent’s responsibility to talk to their kids about staying in well-lit areas, travelling in groups, not eating any candy until they arrive home, things of that nature.”
In addition to following these safe Halloween tips, the 28th Security Forces Squadron will be hosting the annual Pumpkin Patrol.
“Our mission as Pumpkin Patrol is to provide a safe environment for children participating in Halloween festivities in and around the Rushmore, Prairie View and Black Hills housing areas on Ellsworth,” said Staff Sgt. Cynthia Bustos-Santaella, the NCOIC of plans and programming assigned to the 28th SFS. “Our goal is to be vigilant and search for hazards and wrong-doings.”
Sutter mentioned if it is at all possible, parents should go out with their children while they trick-or-treat, that way parents can keep a close eye on their children.
“Halloween is supposed to be a fun holiday,” he said. “Just be safe, have fun and be aware of your surroundings.”