Keep guys, ghouls safe this Halloween Published Oct. 9, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Nathanael Callon 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Halloween is a long-standing tradition for many families. Some family traditions date back as far as the second grade, but the history of the world-wide holiday goes back thousands of years to an ancient Celtic festival. According to The History Channel Web site, the Celts celebrated the new year Nov. 1. The night prior, the Celts were wary of ghosts returning from the dead to wreck havoc on their community. Fast forward to modern American traditions for Halloween, and it is likely that you will still find ghosts running about causing trouble in neighborhoods. Don't fret, though. They're just costumes. For many people, Halloween is now characterized by pumpkin carving, spooky or elegant costumes, trick-or-treating, and candy. All of this can be found on Spangdahlem Air Base and Bitburg Annex as both locations will be hosting numerous events to make Halloween memorable, especially for children. As children partake in Halloween events, however, there are a number of safety precautions to consider before running to the streets, jack-o-lantern bag in hand to fill with treats. The 52nd Fighter Wing Safety office recommends heeding these helpful tips to keep you and your child safe this Halloween: - Parents should accompany their children while trick-or-treating. Being with your child ensures their safety while walking house to house in the dark. - Check the candy for tampering before allowing children to eat it. - Make sure costume masks do not restrict vision. - Wear reflective belts, tape, material or glow sticks to be seen. - Carry a flashlight. - Use sidewalks and crosswalks whenever possible to avoid hidden obstacles in the dark. "It is important to keep our children safe this season. Safety should reach beyond the workplace and be a part of everyday life," said Senior Airman Marcus Higa, 52nd Fighter Wing Ground Safety Office. There are precautions drivers can take, as well, to ensure trick-or-treaters' safety. The ground safety office advises drivers to slow down and watch for children, and, if possible, avoid driving in housing areas during trick-or-treat hours. There are also some things neighbors can do when expecting children to trick-or-treat in their neighborhood. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention Web site suggests those expecting Halloween guest can provide healthier snacks, such as raisins or trail mix; be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacles; and keep jack-o-lanterns away from doorsteps, walkways and curtains, and never leave them unattended. Information from The History Channel and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Web sites was used in this article. (Senior Airman Kali L. Gradishar contributed to this article.)