Halloween safety is more important than candy Published Oct. 25, 2007 By Steve Serrette Tinker Safety Office TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- Halloween is a great time to be a child; people who normally tell you don't talk to strangers let you take candy from them. Parents should stay very aware of their children's movements. Don't let your child go to the door unattended and never let your child go into the house or vehicle of a stranger. Some of the secrets of success for trick-or-treating are: · Walk don't run · Stay on the sidewalks and off road surfaces · Stay in familiar neighborhoods · Don't cross yards and watch for backing vehicles in driveways · Don't carry or wear unsafe costume accessories or props · Wear bright colors · Carry a flashlight to avoid possible tripping hazards in the dark · Check candy and other captured treasures before consumption. Plan to be safe and enjoy the Halloween fun. As a parent, refuse to allow unsafe behavior because excitement usually prevents children (and adults) from exercising good judgment. Treat other peoples' property with care by not walking through flowerbeds, bushes and such -- always walk on the driveways and sidewalks. Evaluate your potential risks before you head out, and manage them as planned. Have fun on Halloween and don't get carried away. Tinker's Halloween Activities Trick-or-treating on base will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday. All housing residents are reminded children 9 and under are required adult supervision while out trick-or-treating. Operation Jack-O-Lantern was established to put the police on the streets to help protect the community when out trick-or-treating. The Tinker Youth Center's annual Halloween Carnival is set for 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday. There will be many games at the free event. Children will have an opportunity to win prizes or candy. Children under 9 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. The carnival is a safe and fun family event. The youth center is looking for individuals or squadrons to donate bags of individually wrapped candy to help offset the cost. Candy can be dropped off at the center by Tuesday.