Halloween 2020

What was your favorite Halloween costume growing up? Maybe you remember a favorite costume from one of your kids, perhaps one that you spend lots of time working on to make it really special for them?

While you may think the number one trick to a safe Halloween is having plenty of candy to pass out so your house doesn’t get egged and you don’t wake up to rolls and rolls of tp in your trees, if you are a homeowner you have a little more due diligence to do before October 31.

It’s costumes and candy – what can go wrong?

Keep the following in mind:

• If you have pets, keep them shut up in a room, for their safety, as well as that of your visitors! One of the top homeowner’s claims is dog bites. With all the excitement and all the strangers at your house at night, many dogs can feel anxious and want to protect you. Please be sure they are crated or shut up in a bedroom. This is so important! Your normally friendly and mild-mannered dog can behave in a way that is uncharacteristic and hurt someone. Take no chances!

• Be sure your porch lights and any other exterior lights are on. Replace any burned out or dim bulbs.

• The weather can be a factor on Halloween too. If it’s wet or icy outside, be sure you have treated your sidewalk, steps and porch. Clear any leaves away. A slip and fall claim can be very traumatizing and expensive, especially if a child is hurt. It’s best to be proactive and keep the fun going!

• Scary decorations are a big part of the fun! Ensure extension cords and other parts are not a tripping hazard. Try to think about what your display looks like from a small child’s point of view and make necessary changes as needed for safety.

• Of course, be mindful of Covid19-friendly ways to distribute candy and participate in the holiday. Check your local government websites for recommendations. See the link below.

• https://govstatus.egov.com/kycovid19
• https://bit.ly/3dFhxJb

The less claims your home owner’s insurance company pays out, the lower everyone’s premiums will be in the future.

Stay safe and Happy Halloween!