Costume Safety:

• Try on costumes before Halloween to allow time for altering
• Hem your costumes so you don't trip and fall.
• Apply reflective tape to your Halloween costumes.
• Use make-up instead of masks for better visibility.
• Wear comfortable, practical shoes and double knot your shoelaces.
• Keep your costume and wig away from candles.
• Don't carry fake swords, guns, knives or similar accessories that look authentic. Make sure they're flexible and cannot harm anyone.

Trick or Treat Safety:

• Plan your route in a familiar neighborhood ahead of time.
• Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries after dark.
• Always trick or treat in groups, accompanied by an adult.
• Follow a curfew and take a watch with a backlight.
• Stay on the sidewalks and out of the streets. Cross only at intersections and designated crosswalks.
• Follow traffic signals and don't jaywalk. Watch for cars that may be backing up or turning.
• Walk. No running. Keep your head up and be aware of your surroundings.
• Only visit well lit houses. Don't stop at dark houses. Don't enter any houses unless you know the people.
• Carry a spare Halloween bag, in case yours breaks or you fill your original one.
• Don't approach unfamiliar pets and animals.
• Don't cut across yards and stay out of backyards.
• Never accept rides from strangers.
• Don't eat any candy until it's inspected for tampering under bright lights.
• Avoid candy that has loose wrappings, is unwrapped, has puncture holes, or is homemade.
• Report any suspicious or criminal activity to an adult or the police.

Halloween Courtesy:

• Be polite and say "thank you."
• Respect other people and their property.
• Only visit well-lit houses that appear ready for trick or treating.
• Only trick or treat during the permitted trick or treat schedule of your post, base or town.

Consider having a party instead of Trick or Treating. Many "Battle Buddies' choose to have a small party for their friends or their children's friends instead of trick or treating. This allows everyone to have a good time in a safe atmosphere.

One thing I love about working with military families is seeing how willing they are to always help each other. Here's your chance to help a military wife by sharing what has worked for you and your spouse to stay connected and feel close during pre-deployment.

"Dear Elaine,

 My husband is about to deploy in a few weeks and lately it seems like all we do is fight. How can we stop fighting and get along so that we can enjoy the few weeks we have left before he leaves?

Signed,  A Frustrated Military Wife"

One lucky person who shares their solution to this problem will receive a free copy of each of the new Pocket Flip Tip Books, Clear Communication and Six issues to Discuss Before Deployment. 

Click here to submit your advice.