Halloween is all about fun and fright, but for homeowners safety is key. From outdoor decorations to trick-or-treat traffic, the right precautions can make the night enjoyable for everyone.
Here are our top Halloween safety tips to help you protect your home, your visitors, and your peace of mind this spooky season.
From glowing jack-o'-lanterns and spooky lights, to fake cobwebs and eerie yard displays, decorating your home for Halloween is one of the best parts of the season. But as fun as it is to get creative, it’s equally important to make sure your Halloween decorations are safe for guests, pets, and your home.
Follow these Halloween decoration safety tips to keep your festivities fun and accident-free:
Choose LED lights over traditional bulbs. LEDs stay cool to the touch and use less energy, lowering the risk of fire.
Use battery-operated candles. Replace real flames in your jack-o'-lanterns and lanterns with flameless, battery-powered candles to reduce fire hazards.
Secure your decorations. Make sure inflatables, props, and hanging items are anchored or weighted to prevent tripping hazards or items blowing away in the wind.
Keep flammable materials away from heat sources. Avoid placing decorations made of paper, fabric, or straw near open flames, heaters, or hot light bulbs.
Use outdoor-rated electrical gear. Always check that extension cords, lights, and electrical decorations are labeled for outdoor use if they’ll be exposed to the elements.
Avoid overloading outlets. Plugging too many devices into one outlet or power strip increases the risk of electrical fires.
Follow manufacturer instructions. Carefully read setup and safety labels for all decorations, especially large displays or electrical items, to prevent damage to your home and ensure everyone’s safety.
A few simple precautions can make a big difference. With these safety measures in place you can focus on the fun, and enjoy a Halloween display that’s both spooktacular and safe.
Whether you’re heading out with the kids or staying in to hand out candy, a little preparation goes a long way toward making Halloween night safe and stress-free. These trick-or-treat safety tips will help keep your home secure and your neighborhood experience fun for everyone.
Lock your doors and windows. Even on a busy night like Halloween, home security shouldn’t take a back seat. Make sure all entry points are locked before festivities begin.
Smart home tip: If you have a smart lock, you can easily check and lock your doors from anywhere — perfect if you’re out trick-or-treating or forgot to double-check before leaving.
Choose pre-packaged or allergy-friendly treats. Opt for store-bought, individually wrapped candy so kids with allergies can safely join in the fun.
Homeowner tip: If you don't want to hand out treats personally, leave a bowl on your porch with a friendly note reminding visitors to take one or two pieces each.
Keep walkways and porches clear. Make sure paths are well-lit and free from decorations, cords, or debris that could cause tripping. This not only keeps kids safe but also prevents potential liability issues for homeowners.
Drive carefully on Halloween night. If you’ll be on the road, take extra precautions in residential areas. Drive slowly, stay alert for children crossing the street, and use your headlights even before dark for better visibility.
By taking these simple precautions, you can create a Halloween experience that’s both safe and welcoming for your family and community — with a little help from your smart home along the way.
Keep your property well-lit. A well-lit home not only looks more inviting to trick-or-treaters but also discourages unwanted visitors. Consider leaving your porch light on or using motion-activated outdoor lighting to improve visibility.
Pro tip: Check and replace any burnt-out bulbs before Halloween to ensure your entryway stays bright and safe.
Bring valuables indoors. It may seem harmless to leave decorations, bikes, or children’s toys outside, but thefts and vandalism tend to spike on Halloween night by as much as 60%. Store expensive or sentimental items inside to avoid tempting opportunistic visitors.
Document your property before the festivities. Taking quick photos of your front yard, porch, and decorations provides a helpful record if any damage or theft occurs.
Insurance tip: These images, and potentially even your smart home devices, can make filing a homeowners insurance claim faster and easier if something goes missing. Check with your insurance provider for details on what is applicable to your unique situation.
Talk to your kids about home safety. Discuss what to do if they encounter a stranger acting suspiciously or if they get separated during trick-or-treating. A little preparation can make a big difference.
Halloween can be overwhelming for pets — the constant doorbell ringing, new smells, and costumed visitors can cause stress or confusion. Keep your furry friends safe and comfortable with these quick tips:
Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip are up to date. If they do slip out, updated contact information ensures a faster, safer return.
Keep candy and treats out of reach. Chocolate and xylitol, a sweetener found in many sugar-free candies, are toxic to pets. Store all treats securely to avoid accidental ingestion.
A quiet room away from the action, with their favorite toys or calming music, can help keep pets relaxed until the night winds down.
With the right precautions, homeowners can enjoy a safe, fun, and festive Halloween without the stress. From securing your home with smart locks and outdoor lighting, to keeping pets comfortable indoors, a few small steps make all the difference.
By following these Halloween home safety tips, you’ll create a celebration that’s as secure as it is spirited and keep everyone from trick-or-treaters to furry friends safe and happy. Happy Halloween!