10 Tips For A Safe, Fun, And Spooky Holiday!

Halloween is almost here! Pirates, witches, superheroes, and more will be roaming your neighborhood looking for treats. Use our 10 tips as a checklist to ensure that Trick-Or-Treaters will be safe when they visit your home.

1. Light Up Your Front Entryway

It's fun to create a spooky atmosphere, but make sure that trick-or-treaters can clearly see the path to your front door. Look to see if any of your light bulbs are burned out and replace them. Consider installing motion sensor lights which turn on when people walk around your property.

2. Clear Your Walkway, Sidewalk, And Driveway

Sweep up leaves, branches, and other debris from your walkway, sidewalk, and driveway. Put away bikes, children's toys, potted plants, gardening tools, or anything else someone could trip over in the dark.

3. Make All Necessary Repairs

Check to see that the risers of the steps leading to your front door are in good shape. Tighten wobbly railings and replace any boards on your porch that are warped. Secure any loose bricks, pavers, or stones along your walkway or driveway so no one trips and falls in front of your home. Be sure that your doorbell is in working order.

4. Anchor Your Decorations

Take time to ensure that all your decorations are held solidly in place in case it gets windy. If you have pumpkins or other items lining your walkway, move them to the side so they are not a tripping hazard.

5. Use LED Lights Instead of Candles

A Jack-O-Lantern with a candle inside could be accidentally overturned and start a fire. Instead, use LED lights inside your decorations and along your walkway. Better safe than sorry.

6. Keep Pets Tucked Away Safely Inside

Pets frighten some children, and in turn, your pets may be frightened by all the commotion of the evening. It's better for everyone if your pets are kept safely inside and away from your treat-seeking visitors. And don't forget to keep candy away from your pets - eating it could make them very sick!

7. Have Some Safe Treats For Kids With Food Allergies

There are many children who have severe food allergies, so have some allergy-safe treats to give to kids who can't eat the candy you are handing out. You can also offer small toys, coloring books, or other non-food items. The Teal Pumpkin Project has lots of suggestions and ideas if you want to learn more.

8. Park Your Car In The Garage

If you have a garage, prevent accidental or intentional damage to your car by moving it inside. Consider asking a friend if you can store your vehicle in his/her garage for the night if you don't have your own.

9. Secure Your Mailbox Or Mail Slot

Tape your mailbox or front door mail slot closed to avoid having unwanted objects placed inside by mischief makers.

10. Greet Your Guests Without Scaring Them

It will be dark and a little spooky for young kids to begin with, and they don't need you jumping out from behind creepy decorations and scaring them unnecessarily. Get into the spirit, but don't overdo it.

At Meridian Homes, we specialize in luxury remodeling and custom home building in the Washington, DC area. Our mission is to create exceptional residences that exceed expectations. Our highly personalized design process and careful management of every project have earned us a reputation over many years for outstanding client service and solid, beautiful craftsmanship. Contact us today to begin your custom home or remodeling project.