While there may not be as many kids in Halloween costumes roaming your neighborhood this year, it still may be possible for a scary visitor to show up on your front doorstep looking for a treat. While trick-or-treating has been a long-standing tradition for many, it does bring about some risk for homeowners.<\/p>\n
Here are some things you should keep in mind this Halloween.<\/strong><\/p>\n 1. Be vigilant against an increase in property crime.<\/strong>\u00a0Ghouls and goblins may not only be scouring your neighborhood for candy, they may also be looking for other things they can get their hands on, including wallets, purses, and other valuables. Theft and vandalism increase significantly during this time. If you\u2019re handing out candy from your front door, make sure your garage is closed and locked. If you\u2019re sitting in your driveway handing out candy, keep an eye on your property as well as your neighbors\u2019 homes. If you notice anything suspicious, consider calling your local police.<\/p>\n 2. Don\u2019t forget to blow out the candles.<\/strong>\u00a0As we approach the holiday season, lighting candles may be a part of your everyday routine. If you have children carving pumpkins, placing a candle inside may be a family tradition. However, when it\u2019s time to call it a day, don\u2019t forget to blow A homeowners policy does provide coverage for fire damage. If you live in an apartment, it\u2019s important to have a renters policy. Usually, the building is covered by the landlord\u2019s policy. However, to get reimbursed for the loss of your personal belongings, you\u2019ll need a renters policy.<\/p>\n 3. Always keep your cars locked.<\/strong>\u00a0Never keep valuables, especially your keys, in an unlocked car. Recently, our neighborhood experienced a series of thefts involving unlocked cars. Also, never keep your social security card in your wallet or purse. Keep it stored in your home, preferably in a safe with other important documents.<\/p>\n 4. Take precautions with decorations.<\/strong>\u00a0Halloween decorations have become more popular in many neighborhoods. Unfortunately, improper use and installation could lead to personal injury as well as property damage. Here are a couple of claims scenarios.<\/p>\n Claim Scenario 1<\/strong><\/p>\n Darth Vader comes to your door with his good buddy Yoda and trips over an extension cord for your giant inflatable pumpkin in the front yard. Darth Vader and his light saber go flying. While Yoda tries to use the force to break his fall, he\u2019s unsuccessful. Unfortunately, Darth Vader falls to the ground and breaks his arm. Because this is an accident on your property, you\u2019d be responsible for his injuries. Fortunately, his injury would be covered by the personal liability coverage in your homeowners insurance policy.<\/p>\n Claim Scenario 2<\/strong><\/p>\n This Halloween, your goal is to have the most decorations in your entire neighborhood. Extension cords are running everywhere, and your outlets are beyond their load capacity. As neighbors are enjoying your decorations, sparks begin to fly and your home catches on fire. Luckily, the fire is contained quickly, and you only experience $5,000 in property damage. Again, a homeowners policy will provide coverage for your damaged property.<\/p>\n 5. Watch out for pedestrians.<\/strong>\u00a0Excited kids looking to find their favorite candy may not necessarily think about safety and how to cross the street. As a driver, it\u2019s up to you to stay alert and slow down if you\u2019re going through a neighborhood during trick-or-treat hours. In addition, it would be wise to stay off your mobile device and focus strictly on driving.<\/p>\n 6. Be on the lookout for vandals.<\/strong>\u00a0Being dressed in a costume may give some the confidence to damage your property. When I was a kid, someone dumped oil on our porch as a prank. That was a huge mess for my parents to clean up. Watch for stolen decorations, eggs on your home or car, and toilet paper.<\/p>\n If something does happen, remember, before a claim payment can be made, you\u2019re responsible for paying the deductible. If the items damaged or destroyed are less than your deductible, don\u2019t file an insurance claim.<\/p>\n Lastly, on a regular basis review your insurance policy with your agent to make sure you have enough coverage to protect you all year round.<\/p>\n For additional safety tips, check out the blogs below.<\/strong><\/p>\n Six tips to keep trick-or-treaters safe on Halloween\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n
\nthem out. Or instead of using real candles, consider using battery-operated ones. Lastly, never leave candles unattended. A pet\u2019s wagging tail or a small child could easily knock them over. For additional candle safety tips,\u00a0click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n