Trick or Treat Tips for the Family

Halloween is Monday, friends! While it's certainly one of our favorite holidays of the year, it comes with its own set of safety concerns.

Follow these tips for a safe and fun Halloween!

Tips for kids:

1. Never let your child trick-or-treat alone.

Children should only trick-or-treat with a group that includes enough responsible adults to manage excited kids in costumes that might make it difficult for them to be seen. A little reflective tape on costumes can also help here, ensuring that drivers can more easily see the group at night. Remind kids about pedestrian safety.

2. Remind kids about "stranger danger."

Halloween is a bit of an anomaly for kids because they're essentially being told to interact with strangers. Make sure your kids know to stick together and keep to well-lit streets, sidewalks and established crosswalks. Better yet -- trail behind them as they trick-or-treat.

3. Carry a flashlight -- and a phone.

In addition to their candy sack, make sure each child carries a flashlight. Older kids should have a phone if they're going out sans parents. In fact, it’s also helpful for adults to have a cellphone on hand in case of emergency. Plus -- you'll be able to snag some cute pictures of your kids trick-or-treating!

Tips for adults:

1. Drive safely
It goes without saying, but drive safely on Monday afternoon/evening. There will be a lot more kids on the road than usual. Use extra caution. Slow down. Do not text and drive.

2. Do some yardwork!
Make sure the path from your driveway or the sidewalk to the front door is free from obstructions or hazards. Repair loose porch railings or steps, repave and cracked concrete on your driveway or anything else that may pose a safety threat to trick-or-treaters. If you add spooky yard decorations like tombstones, fake cobwebs or mummies, be sure that these decorations do not obstruct any pathways. If your front door is located at the top of a lot of steps or you're unable to make repairs, camp out at the end of your driveway to greet kids there!

3. Check your Homeowner's Insurance.
As always, we recommend brushing up on your policy. The fact of the matter is, opening up your home to visitors of any kind can expose you to potential insurance claims and lawsuits. Check your insurance policy or call your agent to make sure your house is covered should an accident happen.

Happy Halloween!

Sources: 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Halloween Health and Safety Tips | 2. ASPCA, Halloween Safety Tips, 3. American Academy of Pediatrics, Halloween Safety Tips.