Halloween is a fun holiday for both kids and adults. If you’ll be passing out candy to all the costumed kids flooding your neighborhood, be sure to take these 4 essential steps to securing your home so everyone has an enjoyable Halloween.
Tip 1: Light Up the Night
Because so much of the trick-or-treating festivities takes place after dark, use lighting to help guide trick-or-treaters safely to your front door. It can be tempting to create a spooky mood by using candlelight or lit luminaries, but opt for LED lighting instead. That way you don’t have to worry about fire hazards in case little ones knock into the lanterns.
Tip 2: Clear the Path
Likewise, make sure the walkways around your home and to your front door are clear of tripping hazards. Kids are too busy trying to get more candy to pay close attention to where they’re walking and may trip over something. Walk around your property before the first trick-or-treaters arrive to identify and address any potential tripping hazards.
Tip 3: Be Smart About Decorations
Decorating your home for Halloween is fun but be smart about what you use to decorate and where you place them. Make sure your decorations don’t block the flow of traffic (inside and out) or become a tripping hazard. Keep any flammable items away from open flames and heat sources, and if you have decorations that move or pop-up, make sure they’re made of safe materials like rubber, soft plastics or foam.
Tip 4: Confine Your Pets
Barking dogs makes people nervous, especially those who may be shy around them. Coupled with the constant stream of visitors and doorbell ringing, even the most patient pet may act out. Instead, make sure your pet is placed away from the door (and doesn’t pose a flight risk!) so visitors are able to come to your door without fear.
Halloween should be a wonderful experience for kids and adults alike as long as everyone remains safe. Following these simple essential tips will make sure everyone has a spooky but safe evening.