With outdoor Halloween decorating in full swing, it is important to remember a few safety tips. Not only could you prevent a problem in your family, but it could also prevent injury to others who visit your house this time of year, according to State Farm.
The first tip is to keep your house brightly lit both inside and outside. Although it is fun to have a dark, spooky front yard, you want to be sure your front entryway or porch are lit clearly for anyone coming to your house.
If you will be using electric decorations in your front yard, be sure that any cords are not tripping hazards. If you h ave to have a cord across your sidewalk, tape it down or place it against the base of a step to avoid anyone tripping over it. You also want to be sure that any extension cords you use outside are suitable for outdoor use. Never overload extension cords and be sure that it is the right amp for what is being plugged into it.
Always choose decorations that are UL-rated as this means it has undergone safety testing guided by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Never use decorations rated for indoor use outdoors. Inspect all parts for broken lights, frayed wires or other damage, even if they are brand new. Keep fake spiderwebs away from small children as they could mistake them for cotton candy.
It is also important to avoid open flames. Instead of burning candles in your jack-o’lanterns or as decorations, choose battery-operated candles. You can also use glow sticks as a way to light decorations. Many decorations used in the fall, such as leaves, hay bales or cornstalks, can start fire very easily. If you do choose to use real candles, never leave them unattended.If you use real candles in pumpkins, use a long fireplace match to light them and keep children away from them. Place lit pumpkins far away from any decoration that may be flammable and from trick-or-treaters as they come to your house.
Be sure that all exits and stairwells are free from decorations or stored items, especially your front steps.
Make sure your liability coverage is suitable should someone trip and fall on your property or be injured in any other way. Even with all the precautions, someone could be injured, and you want to be sure your insurance will cover any costs.
