We all know that one of the great things about having company over is that it forces us to clean and de-clutter our homes. It’s good to include Halloween in that line of thinking, knowing there’s potential to have a lot interestingly costumed little ones stopping by to say hello. Before the big evening, let’s take a look at some things you can do to prepare your home for a safe Halloween.
Are Your Home and Front Lawn a Scary Mess?
Have a front sidewalk with cracks or loose bricks? How about creaky, unstable porch steps where princesses and Star Wars characters may tread? Make sure anywhere your trick-or-treaters may come into contact with your home is kid (and family) friendly.Sweep your sidewalks and paths clear of wet leaves and snow. Make your lawn free of debris. Anything that may cause people to trip – lawn decorations, flowerpots, hoses, bikes, toys, garden tools, etc. should be put away. If you have any cracks in your walkways that concern you, consider placing a chair or decorations over the crack to deter people from finding those cracks the hard way. And make sure your walkways are well-lit so kids and adults alike will easily see and avoid your creative detours.
Light Up Your Home
You’ll want the front of your home and front yard well-lit so families can easily get to your door without worrying about tripping over anything. Plus, a well-lit homefront says “We’re here and ready to welcome trick-or-treaters!”Another reason for making use of outdoor lighting is to discourage any pranksters from causing you a Halloween headache. Yeah, they’re still out there. If you’ve ever considered expanding your outdoor lighting to include side and backyards, perhaps Halloween will be your incentive to get it done.
If you’re going to be out trick-or-treating with kids yourself, it’s also a good idea to make it look like someone is in your home. Do simple things like turning on a few interior lights and leave your TV on. Just be sure not leave any valuables in plain sight.
Don’t Be Alarmed by Ghouls and Goblins
Speaking of home security, Halloween can be an alarming experience. That is, if you don’t disarm your home security system before festivities begin. With the comings and goings of little munchkins, the last thing you want to do is set off a false alarm. So silence your home security for the evening and remember to reset it after all visitors have gone home.
Be Careful with Your Jack-o-Lanterns
Lighting up pumpkins with candles is an age-old tradition. But it’s also a fire hazard. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends illuminating a pumpkin with glow sticks or flashlights instead. If you do use real candles (votives are best), place your lit pumpkins on a sturdy table away from curtains, flammable objects, and any visitor’s reach. Do not use candlelit pumpkins on a porch or path visitors may come in contact with. And never leave candlelit pumpkins unattended.
Planning on Having a Monstrous Lawn Display? Consider Using Your Driveway to Greet Your Visitors
If you are ones who like to have inflatable Frankensteins, creepy tombstones, bats, and ghosts decorating your lawn, move your candy station to the safety of your driveway. Just like your sidewalks and paths, make sure your driveway is free of trip-able cracks, bumps, and clutter that shouldn’t be there.
Regarding Your Four-Legged Creatures
We get it, you have the nicest pets in the world who wouldn’t hurt a flea. Well, with a lot of strangers (dressed strangely) constantly coming to your door on Halloween, your pets may act unpredictably around all the excitement. Plus, believe it or not, not everyone is a pet lover. Especially those who have an innate fear of them. So, it’s a good idea to find a comfortable place for your pets to ride out the excitement behind closed doors.
And Here’s a Bonus Thought …
Look at Your Home and Say “Cheeeeeeeesssseeee”
Here’s something you may have not considered before. ADT, the home security people, recommends you take pictures of your property before trick-or-treaters start to arrive. This is in case accidents or vandalism happen to your home’s exterior. ADT also recommends you call your home insurance agent and see what is covered under your plan.
Here’s wishing a fun and safe Halloween to you and your family.
Sources:
13 Safety Tips for Homeowners this Halloween
5 Essential Halloween Home Safety Tips
Halloween Home Safety Tips: A Trick or a Treat?
8 Ways to Make Sure Your Home Is Safe for Trick-or-Treaters
5 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME SAFE FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS
Halloween Safety On and Off the Road
Halloween Safety Tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics