OPERATION GOBLIN Published Oct. 16, 2007 By 1st SOSFS 1st SOSFS Hurlburt Field, Fla. -- The 1st Special Operations Security Forces Squadron is hosting the annual Operation Goblin, to provide a safe trick-or-treat environment for the children of Hurlburt Field, Oct. 31 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. in base housing. There will be a safety center, hosted by security forces, located at McIntosh and Hume. While the base Fire Dept. will have safety centers located at McMillan & Mayo, and Kanuha & Buege. Personnel at the safety centers will be available to help with any situation which may arise and additional security forces members will patrol on foot and in vehicles. Tips for housing members: - Turn on exterior lights if you plan to give out candy - Place jack-o-lanterns out of the reach of children - Make sure nothing in your yard can trip trick-or-treaters - Drive slowly and watch for children crossing the street - Drive your children to housing areas that are far apart - Avoid giving gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats to young children as they can be choking hazards - Try using make up instead of masks. Masks make it hard for children to see - Make sure costumes fit properly and there's nothing children can trip on - Put reflective tape on dark costumes - Make sure children carry a glow stick or flashlight - Remind children not to enter strangers' houses or accept rides from strangers Once back at the house: - Check and make sure all candy is properly sealed - Ask your children how their night went. Ask if anything happened that scared them or made them worry. Even though the biggest worries Halloween night are lurking strangers and poisoned candy, the biggest cause of injury and death to kids Halloween night is traffic accidents. If you are driving, look out for kids crossing the street and help children avoid busy roads and intersections. Remember the speed limit in all housing areas is 15 MPH. If you would like to donate candy to be distributed at the safety centers, please drop it off at the Security Forces Pass and Registration office, in Bldg 90210 or call Police Services at 884-6185.