Halloween is a fun, festive time that brings communities together—and can offer a great opportunity for businesses to attract customers, boost sales, and engage with the public. However, it also brings unique risks that may not be fully addressed by your standard commercial insurance policy.

With increased foot traffic, elaborate decorations, outdoor activities, and seasonal promotions, property, liability, and crime risks all rise around this time. Here’s what business owners need to consider:

🏚️ Increased Risk of Property Damage

Halloween decorations—especially those involving candles, string lights, props, fire pits, or patio heaters—can increase the risk of fires and property damage. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments respond to around 800 decoration-related structure fires per year.

✅ Safety Tips

  • Use Flame-Free Lighting: Opt for glow sticks or battery-operated candles instead of real flames.
  • Avoid Overloaded Circuits: Only use UL-listed extension cords and avoid overloading power sources.
  • Outdoor Heating Caution: Ensure patio heaters and fire pits are properly ventilated and supervised.
  • Manage Noise/Disturbances: Set expectations with staff for handling disturbances during Halloween events.

🛡️ Insurance Considerations

  • Decorations & Temporary Displays: Confirm your policy includes coverage for seasonal décor or valuable temporary installations.

⚖️ Increased Liability Risk

The influx of guests, trick-or-treaters, or event attendees increases the chance of accidents, falls, and injuries—including costume-related incidents, allergic reactions, or property damage.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that 25% of Halloween-related injuries are from falls, often while installing decorations or due to tripping hazards.

✅ Safety Tips

  • Clear Walkways: Keep pathways and store entrances free of clutter or decorations.
  • Ensure Proper Lighting: Bright lights deter crime and help prevent slips, trips, and falls.
  • First Aid Ready: Keep a stocked first-aid kit on-site and ensure employees know where it is.

🛡️ Insurance Considerations

  • General Liability Insurance: Make sure your liability coverage is current and adequate.
  • Food Spoilage/Contamination Coverage: If you’re serving seasonal perishables like pumpkins or apples, protect your business from spoilage losses.
  • Liquor Liability Insurance: If you’re serving alcohol, this policy protects against alcohol-related incidents involving property damage or injury.

🚨 Vandalism and Theft

Halloween is also a time when pranks, break-ins, graffiti, and vandalism become more common. Businesses should be proactive in protecting both their physical and digital assets.

✅ Safety Tips

  • Secure Merchandise: Remove or conceal merchandise in storefront windows. Lock valuable items in safes or secure rooms.
  • Activate Security Systems: Double-check that alarms and surveillance systems are functional. Post visible deterrent signage.
  • Consider Temporary Security: Hire short-term security or patrols for high-risk nights like Halloween.

🛡️ Insurance Considerations

  • Theft and Vandalism Coverage: Confirm your policy protects against these seasonal risks.
  • Inventory Documentation: Keep a detailed and up-to-date record of assets to streamline any claims process.

🤝 Our Commitment to Your Protection

Every season brings new challenges—and your insurance coverage should evolve to meet them.

Before Halloween, schedule a policy review with your local Midwest agent to:

  • Ensure all seasonal activities and risks are properly covered.
  • Adjust or expand coverage for new liabilities or temporary events.
  • Confirm your business is protected—now and year-round.

📞 Connect with us today to keep your business safe, festive, and fully insured this Halloween season- now and throughout the rest of the year!