Harold Rambacher, Fort Rucker Post Exchange hardlines supervisor, places fuzzy pumpkins on a display near the front entrance of the PX Oct. 15 in preparation for Halloween. The PX will have a costume contest and trick-or-treating for children Oct. 30...

FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Post-wide trick-or-treating is Oct. 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Directorate of Public Safety officials remind parents and children to be safe while having fun.

Maj. Jay Massey, Deputy Provost Marshal, said everyone should be aware of the rules and regulations for the on-post activity. According to Fort Rucker regulation 608-8, children under 11 are to be supervised by a responsible adult at all times while on post.

"Child supervision is a must during trick-or-treating," Massey said. "We want (children) to have a good time, but be safe, too."

Massey said there are several steps parents can take to make sure this Halloween is a good time for everyone.

Parents should always inspect the candy children get while trick-or-treating before children are allowed to eat it, Massey said. Children should also have a way to communicate with parents in case of an emergency.

"Today, just about everybody has a cell phone, and it would be good for children to have at least a (pre-paid) cell phone with them while they're out, just in case."

Massey said it's also a good idea for parents and children to go over the route they will take while trick-or-treating and to practice it before Oct. 30.

Drivers also need to be even more alert while driving through the housing areas during trick-or-treat hours, he added. Police patrols from military and community police will be at the housing areas during the event.

"Children should always be careful while crossing the street," Massey said. "Drivers also need to watch out for children who might be crossing."

Parents should go over the difference between "tricks" and "vandalism" before they head out for the evening, Massey said.

"Things like egging someone's house or vehicle or 'rolling a yard' (toilet-papering a property)are considered vandalism," he said. "These things will not be tolerated here."

Parents and children looking for a place to start their Halloween activities might also consider stopping at the Fort Rucker Post Exchange between 2 and 3 p.m. to participate in the PX costume contest.

"The PX and food court is a great place for everyone to begin their evening; not only can they stop by for a meal but they can enjoy the excitement of the Halloween costume contest and treats that will be handed out," said Joseph Escobar, Fort Rucker Post Exchange store manager. "It's going to be a great time and we're all looking forward to it."

There is no entry fee for the contest and the winners will be announced at 3 p.m.