Have a safe and happy Halloween
You’ve stocked up on candy and have your home decked out with pumpkins and other ghostly decorations in preparation for Halloween. As parents prepare their children for a safe Halloween, property owners should also be thinking about safety. The folks at Delco Alarm Systems have a few tips to help you keep your neighborhood trick-or-treaters and your property safe and secure.
A LITTLE PREPARATION GOES A LONG WAY
Before anyone knocks on your door, make sure your home is well lit. This is especially true for your front door. That way the little ghosts and goblins know where you are handing out treats. Give your lawn and sidewalks a once-over, removing anything that might trip a trick-or-treater. It’s also a good idea to check outdoor lighting and replace any burnt-out bulbs or fixtures that aren’t working. Avoid using traditional candles inside of jack-o-lanterns and other decorations as they can easily catch on fire. Instead, consider using battery-operated candles to keep your home and visitors safe.
PET OWNERS
Keep Fluffy or Fido away from the front door, preferably in a separate room. That eliminates the chance that your dog or cat might escape, become frightened or scare small children. Also remember to keep candy away from your pets. Even a tiny amount of chocolate can be lethal to dogs and cats.
HOW LONG DO I HAND OUT TREATS?
It’s a good idea to decide in advance a cut-off time for answering the door. When you’re finished for the night, simply turn off outdoor and front porch lights. If you feel uneasy about anyone who comes to your door, don’t open it. You also have the right to ask anyone you don’t want on your property to leave. If there is a problem or an emergency, hit the panic button on the keypad near your door and police will be notified.
GHOSTS OF ALL AGES
Adult supervision is essential for younger trick-or-treaters. It’s a good idea to set a time for your older children to be home. Make sure they have their cell phones handy and tell you in advance
where they will be going. Importantly, be sure to check all of your child’s candy. For anyone driving on Halloween, be sure to keep an eye out for children. Costumes can sometimes block their view. Make sure to tell your child to stay on the sidewalk and never step out between parked cars. Glow in the dark costumes and treat bags help your child to be seen at night.
Delco Alarm Systems cares about your safety and the safety of our community. Taking the time to make sure your family, friends and home are safe and have a happy Halloween.