11 Oct Haunting Halloween Home Tips
Frightfully good ideas for All Hallow’s Eve…
Before the ghosts, superheroes, and princesses come knocking this Halloween, there are a few things you can do to prepare your home and ensure a safe and happy holiday for all.
Consider these ideas as you get in the spooky spirit:
Make the call – First things first, decide if you’ll be participating in the Halloween hijinks or putting on a disappearing act. If you are going to be hosting a haunted house or handing out candy, you can add your home to the Treat Map on your Nextdoor app, and on the night of, keep your front porch and yard well-lit. If you’re opting out instead, send the message by keeping the lights off at the front of your home so kids and parents do not disturb. 
Clear your yard – Don’t just clear your main walkway. Consider alternative paths folks might come creeping in and ways you can help direct foot traffic. If you have sprinklers, turn them off a few days in advance so nothing is wet and slippery, and remove them all together if possible, so they don’t become a tripping hazard – try to avoid things going bump in the night!
Prep the porch – Remove valuables like flowerpots, lawn ornaments and statues so they don’t get broken accidentally, and ensure that your railings are secure.
Stock up on treats – If you’ve lived in your home for a while, you probably know about how many trick-or-treaters you will receive. Try to purchase enough so that each child can have at least one treat. If you’re new to the neighborhood, pick something you enjoy (or can share with your co-workers) in case you overbuy. Get candy that is individually wrapped, and hand it out rather than letting the kids dig in the bowl to minimize the spread of germs.
Consider Alternatives – Have you heard of the Teal Pumpkin Project®? A movement to create a more inclusive, happier holiday for all kids, it helps raise awareness of food allergies. If you display a teal pumpkin at your doorstep, it means you have non-food treats available like small toys and stickers. Click here for some ideas on items to give out, and add your home to the Teal Pumpkin Project® map here.
Contain your furry beasts inside – Even if your pets are friendly, it is better to keep them inside on this ominous evening. You never know if children coming to your home may be scared of or allergic to your little monsters. Plus, it can help prevent your pet from escaping in all of the commotion.
Stay safe –If you feel uneasy about anyone who comes to your door, don’t open it. If you have a garage, it’s a good idea to put your cars inside and out of the way of trick-or-treaters, pranksters, and thieves.
Happy Haunting!
