Halloween is here, and we couldn't be more excited! Of course, with all the little kids running around the neighborhood, nothing is more important than safety. That's why our REALTORS® have put together some tips to help you keep trick-or-treaters safe.

• Make Outdoor Lights Bright
  Although darkness goes well with the Halloween vibe, it's not safe for kids approaching your home. Make sure your outdoor lights are as bright as they can be so little kids won't be scared, and bigger kids won't trip over anything. If you want to hang around outside and create a spooky atmosphere, you can dim the lights but maintain a well-lit path.
  
  
• Keep Your Walkways Clear
  Speaking of clear paths, the last thing you want is for kids to trip and fall as they walk up your driveway or along the pathway to your front door. Remove any possible obstructions that may get in their way, no matter how small. If you set up jack-o'-lanterns as part of the walkway, be sure that they're far on each side, so the kids don't get too close to them.
  
  
• Secure Your Pets Inside
  Although Halloween might not be as bad as fireworks on the 4th of July, some dogs can't handle all the excitement. You should keep your pets inside, so you don't have to worry about the animal being nervous or anxious. If you want to involve your pet later on, you can dress him or her up in a costume and take them trick-or-treating with kids, which is a lot more relaxing.
  
  
• Prop Open the Screen Door
  Screen doors and security doors are great in helping keep your home safe, but they act as an added obstruction when kids approach your home for candy. Even if the secondary door stays open on its own with the use of hydraulics, be sure that you secure it open to prevent it from accidentally being closed. This will make it easier for kids to assess your front door.
  
  
• LEDs in Jack-O'-Lanterns
  Jack-o'-lanterns are one of the best Halloween decorations because their design is limited only by your imagination and artistic skill. The problem is that many people put candles in jack-o'-lanterns, which can create a fire hazard if one gets knocked over by a child. To prevent this possibility, use LEDs or other electronic types of lights inside them. If candles are all you have, ensure you're outside at all times to keep kids from getting too close.
  
  
• Secure Railings and Steps
  Halloween is an awesome holiday; the last thing you want is for a child to injure themselves when they approach your home. First, ensure that any railings have been tightened so none of the kids fall. As for the steps, apply friction tape to keep kids from slipping and falling. This is especially important if it's recently rained because you might have a bit of moisture in front of your home, or they could have some on their shoes from other homes.

Halloween is a wonderful holiday that gives everyone a chance to embrace their inner child while also enjoying some spooky fun times. If you're looking for the perfect home to bring the holiday to life, there are plenty of Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale. Contact us, and we'll set you up with some property tours.