Lions and Tigers and…Insurance Claims? Oh My!

You hear the door bell ring on Halloween and visions of ghouls and goblins start spinning in your head. You grab the bucket of treats and walk slowly to the door, preparing yourself for the terrifying costumes sure to be waiting on the other side. Yet, when you  creak open the door you find something even scarier…an insurance adjuster! [cue horror music].

Unfortunately, holidays are a very common time for insurance claims of all sorts. Halloween is no exception to the rule. So, if you want to enjoy this Halloween without the worry, take a few extra steps to prepare yourself this year… especially if:

1- You LOVE Halloween decor. Home decorations can really add to the Holiday spirit but they can also be a house fire waiting to happen. If you decorate your home with dried corn stalks, scare crows, bales of hay or other dried or flammable decorations be sure to keep them far away from heat sources or flames.  Consider using battery operated candles as opposed to real candles inside of pumpkins and around your home and yard.

2- “Your costume is a trip!” Literally. Think about the safety issues that may be involved with your Halloween costume and/or your children’s. Costume’s that are too long can cause tripping and those that restrict vision can cause accidents as well. Reduce injuries and avoid a trip to the E.R. by altering your costume or your child’s costume before heading out to trick-or-treat.

3- There’s lots of kids on your block. Super human powers combined with the effects of excess candy can cause mayhem in children on Halloween day when trick-or-treating is underway. Avoid driving through residential neighborhoods as much as possible and if you must- be sure to take extra precaution and slow down. Before trick-or-treating with your children, emphasize the importance of staying on sidewalks and paying mind to driveways and intersections.

4- You like the paint job on your car.We all know that kids…will just be kids. So to be prepared, try to find a good spot to park your car this Halloween night to avoid the onslaught of shaving cream and raw eggs. If you have a garage or shed, it’s a no brainer. If not, park your vehicles close to your home and in a well lit area (under a street light or motion light in your driveway). Vehicles that are easier to see are less likely targets.

5- Your front porch step is need of repair. Take a good look at the path leading up to your home. Are your walkways, steps and railings all in decent shape? If not, now is the time to get out your tool belt or hire a handyman to help you get your home safe. To avoid injuries on your property, also make sure the front of your home is well lit.