Halloween is only a few days away so as final preparations are made to add finishing touches to costumes and outdoor decorations I have a couple more tips to make sure your Halloween weekend is Spooktacular! Here are recommendations to keep you, your home, and most importantly your trick or treaters safe during the weekend festivities.
WATCH OUT
Most communities will host trick or treating between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm so while driving during these hours be extra vigilant on the road. Be sure to drive slowly and don’t pass a stopped vehicle. The vehicle could be stopped because of children crossing in front or it could be letting children out. Kids will cross the street anywhere at any time as they hurriedly run along to get to the next house. Be on the lookout for children darting out into the street and parents chasing after them.
TRICK OR TREATERS SAFETY
Review these tips with your trick or treaters of all ages prior to going out. Start with street crossing 101. They should look both ways and cross only at corners and crosswalks. If there is a vehicle approaching never assume that a vehicle will stop. It does not hurt to brighten costumes up to make children more visible. Give them flashlights and glow sticks, or use reflective tape on their costumes so drivers can see them. This will help drivers and chaperones spot children more easily. For older kids who are trick-or-treating on their own, find out the route they'll be taking and when they'll be coming home. Also be sure that they carry a cell phone if possible, go in a group, and only go to houses with porch lights on and walk on sidewalks on lit streets.
COSTUME DO’S AND DON’T’S
When purchasing costumes make sure the material is flame retardant and if you are making your own use polyester or nylon materials. Check the labels on all make up and face paint. You want to know where it came from and make sure it does not contain any toxic chemicals. It is also a good idea to do a test strip of the paint on your child’s arm or hand to make sure the paint does not irritate their skin. Properly size up masks, beards, and wigs to ensure children can see clearly and their breathing is not inhibited.
FINAL PREPARATIONS
Take quick walk around your property and look for potential hazards. Make sure walkways are clear of decorations and debris. Keep the path to your front door and well lit. You should avoid draping fabrics over light posts. Set up your spooky lighting with caution. Battery operated candles or LED lights are a safe alternative to candles and eliminates the risk of fire. Think about who you know that is afraid of their current insurance policy. As we head into the end year before things get too busy with the holidays now is a great time to have Auto and Home Insurance policies reviewed by our agency. We can also discuss the benefits of an Umbrella policy. Call The John Suppa Agency at 412-238-8200 today and we can help ease your fears about insurance.