Laughlin Airmen offer tips for a happy, safe Halloween night Published Oct. 27, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Nathan L. Maysonet 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Halloween is a time for children and families to celebrate a night surrounded by the community and be someone or something different. It's supposed to be an evening filled with fun and treats, but for those who don't prepare, it can be a night filled with tragedy. "Many Halloween-related injuries can be prevented if parents closely supervise school-aged children during trick-or-treat activities," said Don Cox, 47th Flying Training Wing Occupational Safety and Health specialist. The Safety staff recommends parents check out the information on the web site www.mychildsafety.net for tips on keeping children safe. "The safety tips presented should be used by parents as a checklist to help remind themselves of some of the hazards their children may face during the course of what is supposed to be a fun-filled evening," Cox said. The site recommends children wear and carry reflective materials when walking after dark, such as reflective tape and markings on their costumes and hand-held flashlights or glowsticks. It also emphasizes the inspection of collected candy and small toys by an adult. With safety foremost in mind, trick-or-treaters should keep to familiar neighborhoods and younger children should be accompanied. If they do go out alone, they should have a watch and a means of contacting family. "If nothing else, parents should remember to set some ground rules before heading out and to make adjustments as necessary," Cox said. "We all hate hearing the stories of children whose Halloween wasn't safe. I hope XLers will take Halloween safety seriously this year, both on and off the installation. Have fun, but be safe." To help make this Halloween a safer experience for children and parents alike, the 47th Security Forces Squadron is planning a Halloween Goblin Patrol Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. in base housing. The Goblin Patrol is designed to offer families with base access a safe and fun environment to trick-or-treat. Security forces and volunteers will be on foot and bike patrols throughout the evening. Children and parents are encouraged to stop and talk with them or request assistance if needed. Two area supervisors will also be on patrol with water, glowsticks and other items to aid families. The Goblin Patrol also staffs a lost parent area for children separated from their parent or guardian. During the evening, they'll escort lost children to the gazebo in Ribas Dominicci Circle adjacent to the golf course and pool. During Halloween, traffic will be limited in base housing. Speed limits there will be lowered to five miles per hour and restricted to residents going to and from their homes. To alleviate traffic, the west gate will be opened for parking at Club XL, Club Amistad, the golf course, the child development center, the outdoor pool and the youth center. For more information on the Goblin Patrol or to report a lost child, Security Forces is available at (830) 298-5100.