Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls are not the only scary things on Halloween. What most people don’t think about are the insurance scares that can cause claims and raise premiums. This Halloween, we want you to be aware of the risks. Here are some safety tips to make Halloween a little less scary.

Jack O’ Lanterns

Making Jack O’ Lanterns is a fun Halloween tradition for the whole family, but they are an insurance nightmare. Using lit candles to light up these spooky faces is a fire hazard for your home. One strong wind or a clumsy trick-or-treater and you could have a fire situation on your hands. Battery powered tea lights, glow sticks and other non-flame sources are a great alternative. They provide the candle look without the danger to your home.

Pets

With loads of children knocking at your door for candy, pets are likely to get excited about the extra attention. Your pet might just be trying to play, but it has the potential to seriously hurt someone. Jumping, scratching, and biting can all harm a child and put a damper on the Halloween celebration. To keep everyone safe, it is a good idea to keep pets inside or in their crate during trick-or-treat hours. If you are parading your pet in their Halloween costume, make sure they are on a leash and in your control.

Driving

If you are planning on attending a Halloween party, be on the watch for witches, skeletons, and ghosts! Take extra caution if you are driving while trick-or-treating is going on. Always double check for children crossing the street. Remember that some of them are wearing dark colors and are harder to see. If you are going trick-or-treating, try to have a light or reflective surface so that cars can see you. Make sure to cross the street at crosswalks and always look both ways before crossing the street.

Vandalism

According to the Highway Loss Data Institute*, vandalism is at its highest on Halloween. While vandalism is not entirely preventable, there are certain things you can do to cut down on risk. Keeping your car in a garage makes it less easily available. Having lights on in and around your home often discourages vandals. While no one wants these tricks during Halloween, make sure to call your insurance agent if they happen.

Kasmer Insurance wishes everyone a Happy Halloween! Call us now to discuss any fears you have about your policy. We will treat you with low rates and no tricks.

Call us at (330) 533-3301 or email us.

* Highway Loss Data Institute Bulletin, Vol. 30 No. 25, Sept. 2013