They’re coming! Get ahead of potential problems by making your home safe for trick-or-treaters (and protect yourself from liability). Here are six tips for Homeowners at Halloween:
1. Light up the house
Yes, dark and scary lighting helps set the mood on Halloween but it also increases the chance of an accident. Besides, a dark house invites “tricks.” Make sure all your exterior lights are working and are on.
2. Keep your walkways clear
Hoses, sprinklers, and loose gravel can be tripping hazards. If your steps are wet, mossy or covered in wet leaves, clean them off. You don’t anyone getting hurt on your property.
3. Keep your dog(s) inside
Your dog(s) may not know how to respond to an evening full of doorbell rings, and oddly-dressed people coming to the door. Dogs could knock over and/or bite little children or even chase scared children into traffic. Keep your pets safe secured inside home on Halloween.
4. Watch out for food allergies
Be sure that the candy you pass out isn’t a risk for a child. Peanut allergies are common – so even if the candy you hand out doesn’t specifically contain peanuts, it could be made in a facility that processes peanuts. Check the label on the candy packaging for a peanut allergy warning. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
5. Park in the garage
If you have a garage, park your car in it on Halloween. Any vehicles left out on Halloween may be vandalized.
6. Use caution when opening the door
Most of the trick-or-treaters will just be little children seeking a treat. But you must still be cautious and be careful when opening the door so you don’t become a victim. The later the knock on your door, the more likely trouble is waiting on the other side of it.
Halloween is supposed to be a scary holiday, but that doesn’t mean it should be dangerous for you or the visitors to your home.
Do you have additional questions about your homeowner’s policy and what is covered? Let’s talk about finding the “just right” coverage for your home.