Next week we will be tackling safe
trick-or-treating tips if you’re going out and about, but what about safe tips
if you’re expecting little ghoulies ringing your doorbell for treats? Read
ahead to make sure your house is safe and fun for everyone to come to (even if
that means no extra candy for you)!
First, there are some general tips
that you should be practicing to make your home safe anyway and reduce your
liability. Make sure anything that can trip someone is picked up, such as
sticks, rocks, lawn toys, hoses, rakes, etc. Any cracks in your walkway should
be fixed as soon as possible in order to keep your home safe for yourself and
your family, let alone guests. Also make sure that your walkway is well lit.
Many tips for trick-or-treaters say not to visit any house that isn’t well lit.
You could be sending the wrong message if you’re expecting kids but get no one
and then realize your porch lights were off. Make sure any candy you give out
is factory sealed. Now is not the time to give out your special homemade
caramels. Most anyone would throw out homemade things in favor of being safe.
Finally, make sure your porch (if you have one) is stable. Stairs should be
secure and there should be no warping of boards or cracks in the cement.
Some special, holiday specific
safety tips refer to decorations. Last winter, we posted a blog about safe holiday lighting tips. Now, a lot of those tips are very winter
holiday oriented, but some solid information nonetheless. I would also suggest
that any streamers or other string-like decorations be hung high enough not to
trip anyone or have a prop (or a mom or dad) get stuck on them. Tape down any
wires on the ground with tape, reflective if possible. Try not to use actual
candles in your jack-o-lanterns. These are such a fire hazard and could catch a
costume on fire or if the pumpkin gets knocked over, possibly your yard or
home. Opt instead for battery operated flameless candles. The look is the same
but much safer. Follow the package directions for any lights or fog machines.
If you are concerned about kids cutting across your lawn or taking out your
lawn decorations, put up a border. Get caution tape and it’ll add to the spooky
factor as well as keep guests where you want them to be. You could also have
adults dress up and “hide” in the yard to keep people away from unwanted areas,
but be careful about scaring little kids.
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy
your holiday decorations! Send us some pictures and you could see your
creations on our website, Facebook, or Twitter. You can also check these out for all the latest in news and events for NHS!
