The beginning of October means the excitement of the Halloween season begins! Keep the festivities spooky and fun but remain on the safe side. 

Here are five tips to ensure a safe Halloween for your family: 

1. Prep the Porch
   • The CDC recommends doing a spot-check of your porch before the trick or treating festivities start. Making sure exterior light bulbs work and removing any possible trip hazards (hoses, decorations) in the path of trick or treaters are good ways to clear the way.
2. Make Costumes Safer
   • Make sure the costume material is flame-resistant in case of a fire
   • Purchase or make a costume with bright colored material to ensure visibility at night. Adding reflective tape to a costume or trick-or-treat bags.
   • Avoid masks, as they can obstruct vision, and try a makeup alternative instead.
   • Watch for tripping hazards like long capes and other dangling features.
   • Give your children flashlights and make sure they use them
3. Remind Kids to Cross Roads Safely
   • The frequency of children being hit and run on Halloween is doubled, according to the NSC. Reminding your children to be especially careful during this exciting time can lead to better safety. And better yet, be with your children while they’re trick or treating. An adult should accompany children under the age of 12. Remind children over 12 to only stop at houses that have lights on and stick to an agreed-upon route.
4. Remain Extra-Cautious When Driving
   • Slow down in residential areas, being mindful of children running across the street unexpectedly and could be wearing darker clothing. And as always, don’t let your phone distract you. To ensure the highest visibility, begin using your headlights by dusk and keep your windshield clean.
5. Check the Candy Haul
   • The CDC still recommends checking the kids’ treats once they’re home ensuring the goodies are prepackaged and completely intact. 

Halloween isn’t the only time we get spooked. Protect yourself from the unknown with reliable home and auto coverage. Contact a local Rockingham Insurance agent for a quote.