Halloween is coming up, and you may not realize just how frightening this night could be for your safety or property.
- Don’t be a scary driver. Drive sober, slowly and even more carefully than usual on Halloween. Watch out for children who may be running or wearing dark costumes.
- Don’t be a scary pedestrian. While walking, do not text or use a cell phone unless necessary—especially as pedestrian traffic and the number of children outdoors increases throughout the day and evening.
- Hear and be heard. Make sure cumbersome costumes or earphones don’t impair your hearing. Alert yourself to the sounds of moving vehicles, other groups of pedestrians, bicyclists and animals.
- Stay accident-free. Temporarily remove or resituate lawn furniture, decorations and any other obstacles to avoid accidents or damage. To avoid trick-or-treater injuries on your property, ensure your home’s entry is in good condition and free of loose or broken pieces on stairwells, and that walkways are clear.
- Prevent fires. Place pumpkins that contain candles at a distance where curious guests can’t tip them over or accidentally ignite a costume. Extinguish all candles before going to bed and use battery-operated lights if possible. A variety of jack-o-lantern lights are available at most stores that sell Halloween decor.
- See and be seen. Encourage all trick-or-treaters and adult chaperones to carry a flashlight and, if possible, wear bright colors. Apply light-reflecting material to costumes for additional safety.
- Use power in numbers. When traveling on foot, walk in groups, cross only at corners and crosswalks—never between parked cars—and keep to well-lit streets.
- Fend off unwelcome guests. Keep outdoor lights on to scare away thieves andvandals who often take advantage of a busy Halloween night to strike.
- Keep pets safe. Secure all pets indoors. Warn children to stay away from animals as they go door to door. Halloween night can be stressful, even for the friendliest creatures.
- Inspect your candy. Cavities aren’t the only candy-related risks on Halloween. Inspect all trick-or-treats and never eat unwrapped, tampered or expired items. Throw away any suspicious candy.
- Stay aware of allergies. Offer allergen-friendly treats if possible, such as peanut- and gluten-free items, if possible.
We at Absolute wish you a very fun-filled and Spooktacular Halloween!