Halloween can be one of the most exciting holidays for kids of all ages as well as new homeowners.  As a homeowner, you now can take part in the ageless celebration of handing out candy to all the little angels and devils in your neighbourhood.  However, Halloween is not all fun and games, it is also your responsibility to ensure that the kids who visit your home are safe.

As the premier agent for all your Vernon real estate needs, here are some tips to get your home ready for Halloween and provide those trick or treaters a safe path to and from your doorstep.

Tripping Hazards

 The number one hazard for trick or treaters is tripping hazards. With so much excitement, most kids are not paying attention to where they are running.  Before the big night, be sure to scan your property and fix, remove or tape off any tripping hazards.  These hazards include:

• Uneven or missing paving stones.
• Exposed tree roots (these will need to be taped off).
• Cracks in the driveway or sidewalk in front of your home.
• Tape down or do not run extension cords across driveways or pathways.

Light the Path

A well-lit pathway to and from your door is a great way to keep trick or treaters safe.  Instead of installing year-round landscaped lights, get creative and festive.  Some great lighting ideas that embrace the spirit of Halloween include:

• Use glow sticks to provide an illuminated path to your door.
• A string of orange lights.
• LED tea lights.

Here’s the Deal:

Although it may seem spookier and more festive to darken your doorway, always keep your porchlight on to provide extra lighting and provide a safer environment for the neighbourhood kids.

 Play it Safe 

Besides removing tripping hazards and providing a well-lit pathway to and from your door, some often overlooked Halloween safety precautions that you may want to incorporate include:

• Never use candles in your pumpkins. The last thing you want is a house fire because someone accidentally knocked over a pumpkin.  Instead opt for an LED tea light.
• Put your pets in a safe, quiet place away from the commotion. Although Halloween is an exciting time for most people, the same cannot be said for your pet.
• Before lighting any fireworks, check with the city for any bylaws and follow safety precautions. 

These simple tips will ensure that your home is a safe one this Halloween.  If you are interested in more Halloween safety precautions or are interested in some of the new and exciting real estate options that abound in Vernon, please contact us today.  We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Happy Halloween from the Saltfowler Team.