If you think about it, Halloween is a crazy holiday. Kids dress up in costumes, knock on their neighbors’ doors, and demand candy. It’s difficult to resist those adorable and creative kids. While kids are concerned with the excitement of dressing up and collecting candy, you as a homeowner should be concerned with the safety of the trick-o-treaters. We have some easy and common sense Halloween safety tips to make the holiday fun and safe for everyone.

• Keep a light on. If you’re planning on handing out treats, turn on your porch lights. Not only will trick-o-treaters know you’re handing out candy but you’ll provide them a lighted path to your front door.
• Clear a path. Make sure garden hoses, lawn furniture and decorations, leaves and other debris are out of the way of walking paths and porches. You should also make sure any pavers or sidewalks that aren’t even should be clearly marked or illuminated to avoid tripping.
• Decorate safely. Jack-o-laterns are the quintessential Halloween decoration but they also pose a hazard when candles are used to illuminate them. If you do use candles, make sure the pumpkins are placed on a sturdy surface away from steps and other high traffic areas. Instead of using candles, consider glow sticks, battery operated candles, or even flashlights. If you have lawn decorations or lights decorating your house be sure that the electrical cords aren’t stretched across any walking paths.
• Not everyone is an animal lover. This is one night that your beloved pets should stay in the house. Even if Kujo is well trained and docile, not everyone is comfortable around animals. Keeping your dog or cat inside will also reduce the risk of them getting caught up in the excitement and running off.
• The goods. Don’t let your hard work in the kitchen (and money) go to waste; save the homemade treats for another event or only give them to those neighbors or trick-o-treaters you know personally. For all other trick-o-treaters, hand out commercially prepared and individually wrapped.
• Party time. If you’re hosting a Halloween party, the above tips should also apply to your party. Make sure  you party area is clear of obstacles and furniture that could pose a hazard, especially to someone in costume. All candles should be up off the floor and away from drapes and tablecloths. If you’re serving alcohol, keep an eye on your guests intake, keep alcoholic beverages away from underage guests, and never let anyone who appears to be inebriated drive themselves home.

It’s our hope with these few Halloween safety tips you enjoy the holiday safely and to the fullest!