Kids love the magic of Halloween, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a terrifying night for you and your kids. Following these tips will help guarantee a claimless Halloween that everyone can enjoy.
When trick-or-treaters are on the nightly Halloween prowl
Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Lack of visibility due to low lighting at night also plays a factor in these incidents.
See these tips below to help keep your children safe on Halloween night:
- A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood walks
- If your older children are going, plan and review an acceptable route
- Agree on a specific curfew with the children
- Teach your children never to enter a stranger’s home or car
- Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends
Preparing your house for a safe and claimless Halloween
Approximately 41 million children are estimated to go trick-or-treating this Halloween, with 118 million potential stops on the way.
Costumes and candy are the main concern for most trick-or-treaters, but these visiting goblins, ghosts and ghouls can face the risk of an accident or injury if homeowners don’t prepare for guests.
- Clear your walkways of any trip hazards
- Skip candles and try using glow sticks or battery-operated candles
- Decorate safely using fire-proof decorations
- Illuminate your walkway and entryway with outdoor lights or flameless candles
- Secure railings to prevent potentially harmful trips and falls
- Restrain pets from the door and don’t allow visitors to pet them
- Consider extra protection such as Umbrella Insurance in case trick-or-treaters get injured on your property
Protecting your car from Halloween tricksters
Every October, goblins, ghouls, and pranksters prowl the night and “trick” car owners by hitting their vehicles with eggs, Silly String, smashed pumpkins, and more. If these items are left on car paint too long, they can cause ugly permanent stains that can lower your vehicle’s resale value.
- Park smart and remember to activate your car alarm
- Protect your car with a coat of wax
- Be prepared to clean off small messes quickly
- Park your car in the garage or use a full-sized car cover
