As you gear up for Halloween this year, there are a number of ways that you can ensure your home, guests, pets, and loved ones stay safe during spooky season.
Establish a Clear Path Around Your Home
Keep the area around your house clear of obstructions after dark to prevent your guests from tripping and falling. If you have toys, lawn ornaments, or gardening equipment on your lawn and walkways during Halloween, be sure to remove them.
Make Sure The Lights Are On
Make certain trick-or-treaters and other visitors can clearly see after dark to avoid accidental falls. As well as deterring burglars, you’ll reduce liability claims.
Confine Your Pets for Safety
Animals can jump on – and even bite – unknowing visitors, especially those in costumes. Make sure that your pets and guests remain safe on the porch or in open areas.
Be Cautious When Carving Pumpkins
Use a special pumpkin cutter to ensure safety this Halloween – or let the adults carve the pumpkins. Kids can help with the design before carving.
Jack-o-Lantern Safety
Trick-or-treaters and pets can easily knock Jack-o-Lanterns over if left unattended. This is particularly dangerous if the candles are lit. Invest in a battery-powered pumpkin light to avoid fire damage claims.
Be Wary Of Open Flames
For the same reason as with Jack-o-Lanterns, candle and luminary sets that are easily tipped over can lead to insurance claims for fire damage. Opt instead for battery-powered lighting or light sticks.
Think Before You Serve
This Halloween, remember that you are responsible for the safety of those who will be visiting your home. Only commercially-packaged treats should be given to trick-or-treaters. Serve non-alcoholic beverages to your older party guests who will be driving later; and do not serve alcohol to any under-age partygoers.
Ensure Your Home Is Secure
Do you plan to be away over Halloween? Make sure your security system is set up before you leave. Halloween tends to be a season of mischief and burglaries. Be sure to also turn on motion-sensitive lights, and let your neighbors know if you won’t be home.
Smoke Alarms Should Be Tested Regularly
Make sure to test your smoke alarms well ahead of Halloween to minimize the chance of fire damage claims.
Make Sure To Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Review your coverage. Feel free to call us if you have any questions or concerns. We can review your policy and ensure you’re protected for the Halloween Holiday.
