Safety First for Trick-or-Treating this Halloween

Priorities for trick-or-treat night vary greatly depending on your age. For those under the age of 10, it’s all about candy and costumes. Teens might care more about tricks than treats. Parents not only have to worry about their children’s safety, but also their home’s security when they’re out and about in the neighborhood.

This Halloween, be prepared for any tricks or treats that might come your way with these helpful tips. Before you and your family take to the streets in search of miniature chocolate bars, remember to lock your windows and doors, and turn on your security system.

Local newspapers, TV stations and radio stations advertise the dates and times of area trick-or-treat nights every year. This leaves your home vulnerable to those who might be looking to get inside when you’ll be away for a few hours.

Costume Conundrum

When you’re helping your child pick their Halloween costume, keep safety in mind. You’ll want to make sure masks have eyeholes big enough that their vision won’t be compromised when looking both ways before crossing the street. Costumes that drag on the ground can pose a tripping hazard.

Make sure to consider weather conditions when helping your child pick a costume. October weather can be unpredictable in South Central Pennsylvania, but chances are a ballerina costume might be less practical than something with sleeves, pants or a hood.

Footwear should also be taken into consideration. Dress-up plastic princess heels might not fare well for trucking around the neighborhood. Flat shoes or sneakers will be more comfortable for the long haul.

Home, Sweet Home

If you’re handing out candy at home this year, you’ll need to make your front yard and porch trick-or-treater friendly. Turn on porch lights, and illuminate your walkways with path lights to eliminate the risk of anyone tripping or falling.

Clear your yard of any clutter — fallen branches, hoses or extension cords that could pose a hazard. And make sure any jack-o-lantern candle flames are tucked safely away from areas where small children will be.

If your home is the unfortunate target of a Halloween trick, give us a call for new egg-free windows. We promise the window-buying experience will be nothing but a treat with us.

Photo: Transguyjay