October 29, 2018
Agency1. Use extra caution when driving at dusk
Each neighborhood has different times for trick or treating. The younger children are usually out early, and the older children can still be out after dark. Drivers should try to avoid busy areas, keep their headlights on and take it slow. Parents can help protect their children by dressing them with reflective clothing and using flashlights and glow sticks.
2. Make a clear path to your front door
Homeowners that greet lots of trick or treaters need to clear their property from potential hazards:
- Clear walkways from leaves, decorations, extension cords and debris
- Make sure there is adequate lighting
- Maintain stairways, railings and porch areas so they are safe for children
3. Secure your pets
The flurry of activity on Halloween night can cause any cute and friendly pet to become anxious or over excited. To avoid an incident, keep them away from trick or treaters.
4. Don’t play with fire
Use battery operated candles in jack-o’-lanterns. A lit pumpkin makes for a great display, but it should never be left unsupervised. Pumpkins left outside overnight are at risk of getting smashed or stolen. You might want to store them inside.
5. Halloween pranksters
No good deed goes unpunished. If you run out of candy, you may become the target of some pranksters. If that’s the case, here’s what you should do:
- Contact authorities and get a police report right away
- Submit a claim for vandalism to your car or home. The police report will be helpful during the claims process.