Halloween is just around the corner, and we know it’s an exciting time for kids (and let’s be honest, adults too!). Between the costumes, candy, and spooky decorations, there’s so much fun to be had. But with all the excitement, it’s also important to keep safety in mind. Whether you’re trick-or-treating with your kids or welcoming little monsters to your doorstep, a few simple precautions can help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable night.  

At Midwest Certified Insurance Agency, we care about keeping you and your family protected—on Halloween and every other day of the year. Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Halloween is more treat than trick!

1. Choose Safe and Visible Costumes

Halloween costumes are all about creativity, but safety should come first. Make sure your kids’ costumes are not only fun but also safe for them to wear while they’re out collecting candy.

  • Reflective Elements: Add reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes, bags, or shoes to make sure your little ones are easily seen by drivers.
  • Proper Fit: Costumes should fit well to avoid tripping. Make sure capes, skirts, or other loose pieces aren’t dragging on the ground.
  • Mask Safety: Masks can make it hard to see or breathe, so opt for face paint or makeup instead. If your child insists on wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are big enough for clear vision.
  • Flame-Resistant Materials: Double-check that costumes, wigs, and accessories are flame-resistant, especially if your route includes candles or jack-o-lanterns with open flames.

2. Light the Way

It’s going to be dark during trick-or-treating hours, so it’s important to make sure you and your kids can see—and be seen.

  • Carry Flashlights: Bring a small flashlight or a glow stick to help illuminate the sidewalk and your path. Not only does this help prevent trips and falls, but it also makes you more visible to cars.
  • Stick to Well-Lit Areas: Stay on well-lit streets and avoid shortcuts through dark alleyways or unlit areas.

3. Be Cautious on the Road

Halloween is one of the busiest nights for pedestrian traffic, especially with little ones dashing from house to house. Drivers, trick-or-treaters, and parents all need to stay alert.

  • Drivers: Slow down, especially in residential neighborhoods. Be extra cautious when backing out of driveways and watch for kids crossing the street.
  • Pedestrians: Remind your kids to use crosswalks and avoid running across the street. If you’re walking in a group, stay on the sidewalks and look both ways before crossing.

4. Check Candy Before Eating

Candy is one of the best parts of Halloween, but it’s smart to check your kids’ haul before they dive in.

  • Inspect for Safety: Throw away any candy that looks tampered with, has ripped packaging, or is homemade from someone you don’t know.
  • Watch for Allergies: If your child has a food allergy, make sure to inspect labels carefully. Some houses also offer non-food treats, which is a great alternative for kids with allergies.

5. Decorate Your Home Safely

If you’re planning to decorate your home and welcome trick-or-treaters, keep safety in mind for both your guests and your property.

  • Clear Walkways: Remove any tripping hazards like garden hoses, bikes, or decorations from the path to your door. Make sure steps and walkways are well-lit.
  • Use Battery-Powered Lights: Instead of candles in your jack-o-lanterns, use battery-powered lights or glow sticks to avoid the risk of fire.
  • Pets Indoors: Halloween can be overwhelming for pets, especially with the constant doorbell ringing and strangers in costumes. Keep them indoors and away from the front door to avoid any escapes or stress.

6. Keep Your Homeowners Insurance in Mind

Accidents happen, even during a fun night like Halloween. This is a great time to make sure your homeowners insurance is up to date and covers any potential liability, such as if a trick-or-treater gets injured on your property.

  • Check Your Policy: Double-check your coverage to ensure it includes liability protection for accidents that might happen on your property.
  • Extra Decorations?: If you’ve gone all out with spooky decorations, make sure they’re secure and won’t cause any injury. You don’t want your haunted house to be too scary!

7. Have a Trick-or-Treat Plan

Before heading out for trick-or-treating, create a plan with your kids to make the night fun and stress-free.

  • Set Boundaries: Establish a route and make sure your kids know where they can go and when they need to be back home.
  • Buddy System: If your child is old enough to trick-or-treat without an adult, make sure they’re going with friends and sticking to well-known neighborhoods.
  • Phone Numbers: Make sure your kids know your phone number and have a way to contact you if they get lost or separated from the group.

Happy Halloween!

We hope these tips help you and your family have a safe and spook-tacular Halloween! If you have any questions about your home or auto insurance coverage this season, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to make sure you’re protected, no matter the holiday.