Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for kids and adults alike. With costumes, candy, and spooky decorations everywhere, it's a night full of fun and community. But while you're enjoying the festivities, it's important to remember that some of the very things that make Halloween special — costumes, decorations, and crowds — can also create safety risks.
From preventing accidents to protecting your home, here are some essential Halloween safety tips to keep the night enjoyable and worry-free.
Ensure Adequate Lighting
A well-lit property is one of the easiest ways to prevent accidents. Poor lighting can lead to trips, falls, and injuries, especially for trick-or-treaters navigating walkways in the dark.
- Turn on all exterior lights to brighten pathways, porches, and stairs.
- Use motion-activated lighting to automatically illuminate when someone approaches — a smart home solution that adds both convenience and safety.
- Replace burnt-out bulbs ahead of time and check that all fixtures are working properly.
Avoid Fire Hazards Outdoors
Halloween décor like jack-o'-lanterns and luminary bags often involve open flames — but they can quickly turn into fire hazards. Costumes and decorations can easily catch fire if they come into contact with candles.
- Swap real candles for battery-operated LED candles to achieve the same spooky glow without the risk.
- Keep decorations away from walkways and doorways where costumes are likely to brush against them.
- Double-check extension cords and electrical decorations to make sure they're in good condition.
Choose Costumes Wisely
Safety should always come before style when it comes to Halloween costumes.
- Pick costumes that are well-fitted and free from long fabric that could cause tripping.
- Avoid masks or accessories that block vision. Face paint is a safer alternative for kids.
- Skip heavy props like swords or wands that could injure others while walking.
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Layer costumes with warm clothing if temperatures drop — safety is no fun if kids are too cold to enjoy the night!
Practice Safe Trick-or-Treating
Whether you're walking with your kids or letting them go in groups, a few precautions can help ensure a safe evening:
- Stick to sidewalks and well-lit streets.
- Teach children to look both ways before crossing and to always use crosswalks.
- Add reflective tape to costumes or carry glow sticks and flashlights to stay visible to drivers.
- Remind kids to never enter a stranger's home or car.
Protect Pets from Halloween Hazards
Halloween candy is dangerous for pets — especially chocolate and anything containing xylitol (an artificial sweetener). Even candy wrappers can cause digestive blockages.
- Store candy out of reach of pets.
- Keep animals in a quiet, secure space if frequent doorbell rings make them anxious.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control immediately if you suspect ingestion.
Protect Your Home This Halloween — and All Year Long
Halloween is just one night of the year, but home safety should be a year-round priority. At Ackerman Security, we provide advanced, customized security solutions designed to keep your family, pets, and property safe — during the holidays and beyond.
With over 50 years of experience protecting Georgia homes, we offer:
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Smart Video Surveillance - Monitor your home in real time and receive instant alerts from anywhere.
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Smart Home Automation - Control locks, lights, and security features from your phone or voice assistant.
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24/7 Professional Monitoring - Get immediate emergency response when you need it most.
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Door and Window Sensors, Motion Detectors, and More - Stop break-ins before they happen.
Whether you're handing out candy or heading out for the night, Ackerman helps ensure that the only surprises this Halloween are the fun, spooky ones.
Contact us today at ackermansecurity.com or call 800.552.1111 to schedule your free security consultation and discover how we can keep your home safe, secure, and ready for every season.
