10/28/2026
🎃 Getting Your Home Ready for Halloween: Safety Tips for Homeowners 🏠
Trick-or-treaters will be out in force this Halloween. A few simple steps can help keep every visitor safe:
💡 Light the way. Turn on porch and walkway lights, and replace burned-out bulbs. Good lighting helps kids see where they’re stepping and helps drivers see kids.
🧹 Clear the path. Remove tripping hazards like hoses, toys, and wet leaves from sidewalks, steps, and driveways. Fix loose steps or uneven pavers, and keep railings sturdy.
🕯️ Choose flameless candles. Real candles in jack-o’-lanterns can ignite costumes and décor. LED lights are a safer choice. Keep decorations like dried corn stalks, hay, and paper away from heat sources and open flames.
🔌 Check your lights and cords. Use only decorations rated for indoor or outdoor use as labeled, avoid overloading outlets, and tape down or cover cords so no one trips.
🐕 Secure your pets. Keep dogs and cats in a quiet room away from the door so they aren’t frightened or tempted to dart out.
🍬 Hand out safe treats. Consider individually wrapped, commercially packaged candy. Offering non-food items like stickers or glow bracelets is a great option for children with food allergies. Teal pumpkins signal that you have non-food treats available.
🚗 Slow down and watch for kids. If you’re pulling in or out of your driveway during trick-or-treat hours, go slowly and take extra care. Consider parking vehicles on the street out of the way, or keep your driveway clear for visitors.
🔥 Be fire safe. Make sure smoke alarms are working, and keep exits clear of decorations in case of an emergency.
Thank you for helping make our community a safe and welcoming place for everyone! Have a happy, healthy Halloween! 🧡