Top 10 Halloween Safety Tips from Trusted Choice
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Halloween is just around the corner, and many people may not realize how frightening this spooky night could really be for their personal safety, property or bank accounts. We collaborated with consumers to help Trusted Choice independent insurance agents identify the Top 10 Halloween Safety Tips that keep families safe:
Tip #1: Costume Safety
Costumes can hide more than someone’s true identity and cloak hazards. All disguises should be made from flame-resistant materials and shouldn’t contain sharp accessories or be too long. Avoid masks that may obscure vision and only use hypo-allergenic make-up.
Tip #2: See and Be Seen
Encourage all trick-or-treaters and adult chaperones to each carry a flashlight. Apply light-reflecting material to costumes for added safety.
Tip #3: Hear and Be Heard
Make sure your hearing isn’t impaired with costumes or ear buds. Be alert to the sounds of moving vehicles, other groups of pedestrians or bicyclists, animals, and listen to all of your surroundings.
Tip #4: Power in Numbers
When traveling on foot, walk in groups and cross only at corners and crosswalks—never between parked cars. And stay on well-lit streets.
Tip #5: Unwelcomed Guests
Property vandals often use the chaos of Halloween night to strike. Scare them away by keeping outdoor lights on.
Tip #6: Pet Safety
Keep pets inside. Warn children to stay away from animals as they go door-to-door. Halloween night can be stressful, even to the friendliest creature including the neighborhood dogs and cats.
Tip #7: Candy Inspection
Cavities aren’t the only candy-related risks on Halloween. Inspect all trick-or-treat candy and other treats. Never eat unwrapped items. Collect candy only from people you know and trust and ask the local police department if it offers a candy x-ray and/or inspection service. And throw away any suspicious candy.
Tip #8: Prevent Fire Dangers
Prevent fires by making sure pumpkins containing candles are placed at a distance where a costume cannot be ignited or a curious guest may tip it over. Extinguish all candles before going to bed. Use battery operated lights wherever possible. A variety of Jack-O-Lantern lights are available at many stores that sell Halloween decor.
Tip #9: Don’t be a Scary Driver
Drive sober, slowly and even more carefully than usual on Halloween. Watch for children who may be running or wearing dark costumes.
Tip #10: Stay Accident-free
Remove or move lawn furniture, garden gnomes, or any other obstacles, to avoid accidents or damage. Ensure your home’s entry is in good condition, free of loose or broken pieces on stairwells and walkways are clear to avoid trick-or-treaters’ injuries on your property.