Ghosts, goblins, and giggles — Halloween is one of the most magical nights of the year! Between the costumes, candy, and community fun, it’s a night made for memories. But even the most festive fright night needs a few safety tricks to keep the fun from turning into a scare. Whether you’re sending your little pumpkins out to trick-or-treat, wrangling a costumed pup, or decking out your porch for visitors, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping the night safe and spooktacular.
Little Monsters on the Move (Kids’ Safety Tips)
Keep your little ghouls glowing and grinning from door to door with these safety tips.
- Shine bright! Choose bright, reflective costumes or add glow sticks, light-up accessories, or reflective tape so kids stay visible as they roam.
- Double check the fit. Make sure costumes aren’t too long (no tripping hazards) and choose flame-resistant materials for extra safety.
- Breathe easy. Skip the mask and go for nontoxic face paint — it makes it much easier to see and breathe.
- Add ID. For younger kids, tuck a note with your name and phone number in a pocket, or write it discreetly on their arm — just in case you get separated.
- Stick to sidewalks. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible, and cross only at corners — never between parked cars. Review safety around vehicles with your kids.
- Make a plan. For older trick-or-treaters, set a route, a curfew, and some ground rules: stay in groups, visit only well-lit homes, and never enter a stranger’s car or house.
- Inspect the loot. Once the candy haul is home, check for anything unsealed or suspicious, and watch for choking hazards for younger kids.
- Think outside the block. Not sure about your neighborhood for trick or treating? Check out local mall events or community “Trunk or Treats” for a fun and family-friendly alternative.
Howl-o-Ween Ready (Pet Safety Tips)
Halloween can be confusing for our furry friends — after all, strangers in costumes and ringing doorbells aren’t exactly normal! Help your pets enjoy the night, too.
- Desensitize early. Let them see your costume ahead of time, especially if it includes masks or props. Try feeding them treats while you are in costume to get them accustomed to it.
- Practice door knocks. Have family members or friends simulate trick-or-treaters so your pet gets used to the noise and the routine.
- Create a safe space. Some pets prefer peace and quiet. Set them up in a cozy room with a radio or TV for background comfort during trick or treating hours.
- Keep them secure. Whether it’s behind a baby gate, in a crate, or on a leash, make sure they can’t bolt out an open door, or get slammed by one.
- Reflective is best. If your pet joins you outside, use a reflective leash. Add reflective tape to your dog’s costume or collar for extra visibility.
- Ensure an adult is in control. Even if your child can manage your dog, they are not experienced in how to react should something go wrong.
- Keep an eye on your pet’s mood. Your pet may act differently in a crowd of people with costumes, lights, noise and other stimuli. They may bite or scratch if they feel threatened. If they seem stressed, bring them home.
- No candy, please! Chocolate and artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to pets, so keep those treats out of paw’s reach.
Home Sweet Haunted Home (For Homeowners)
Your home is part of the Halloween magic—make it inviting and safe for trick-or-treaters!
- Light the way. Replace any burnt-out bulbs, sweep away leaves, and clear your walkway of toys, bikes, or tools.
- Flameless fun. Skip open flames in pumpkins and go for battery-operated candles or LEDs instead.
- Decorate safely. Skip flammable décor like cornstalks or hay bales. They can ignite quickly from a warm bulb or stray spark. Choose safer materials to keep your spooky setup fire-free.
- Mind the allergens. Avoid candies with peanuts or tree nuts and consider nonfood treats like stickers or small toys. Did you know that a teal pumpkin on your porch signals that you’re giving out nonfood items for those concerned about allergies?
- Check your systems. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and ensure outdoor cameras and your security system are working.
- Pool precautions. If you have a pool, make sure it’s well-secured and off-limits to curious ghouls. Not only could it pose a danger to them in their Halloween costumes, it could put you, as the homeowner, at risk.
- Stay alert on the road. Driving during trick-or-treat hours? Slow down and keep an eye out for excited kids who may dart into the street.
- Neighborly watch. If you won’t be home during prime candy hours, let a neighbor know so they can keep an eye out. Leave a bowl of treats in a well-lit area for passersby.
Finally, know the Halloween horrors covered by your insurance policy. With a few thoughtful steps, you can make Halloween magical, memorable, and mishap-free. From all of us at California Casualty, have a safe and Happy Halloween!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
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