Fall is now in full swing, and the holiday season is right around the corner. Halloween kicks off this festive time of year with a night of tricks and treats. Now is a great opportunity to discuss how to keep yourself, your family, and your home safe and happy on the year’s most spooky night!
Keeping your children and family safe:
- Walk safely. This includes crossing the street using traffic signals and crosswalks, teaching children to look both ways prior to crossing, and putting electronic devices down so you are alert while in the presence of vehicles and others.
- Keep costumes creative and safe. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers, have children carry a flashlight, and choose face paint over masks to prevent obstructing your or your child’s vision.
- Review or create an emergency plan. Remind your children to call 9-1-1 or their local emergency number if they ever have an emergency or become lost.
- Parents should always accompany young children. If older children are going alone, plan and review an acceptable route and time they should return home.
Keeping your home and property safe:
- Remove potential hazards from your yard. Items such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations could cause a child to trip or get injured.
- Check outdoor lighting. Make sure your outdoor lights are working and replace any burned-out bulbs.
- Restrain your pets. Make sure your pets cannot come near trick-or-treaters so they do not inadvertently jump on, bite, or injure a trick-or-treater.
Bonus tips:
- Drive extra safely on Halloween. Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods, enter and exit driveways slowly and carefully, and eliminate any distractions inside your vehicle.
- Schedule a security system tune-up. This will ensure your belongings are being adequately monitored on Halloween night. Additionally, make sure your valuables are stored in a safe place.
- If you are having a Halloween party, keep safety in mind. Confirm adult beverages are out of reach of children and valuables are locked away. If dry ice is used, make sure none is consumed by party guests.
Halloween doesn’t have to be a frightful night if you follow these safety tips! And don’t forget – our Penny Insurance agents are here to discuss any policy questions you have so that you rest easy this and every night.