As part of the Halloween tradition, many homeowners pass out candy to children of all ages on October 31st. However, many homeowners are unaware of the risks Halloween presents when it comes to strangers on their property. From vandalism to theft, it’s important that you take measures to protect your property and prevent a home insurance claim in the process.

Light Your Property Well to Prevent Home Insurance Claims

Vandalism generally happens at night when it is too dark. The cover of darkness protects pranksters, allowing them to vandalize property without being seen. To deter pranksters, keep your house and property well-lit by installing motion lights. Any movement outside your home may trigger the light and hopefully deter people from committing criminal acts.

Prevent Falls and Injuries

With many trick-or-treaters looking for treats at night, their chances of getting injured increases. Although your home insurance covers injury, it’s important that you attempt to prevent trick-or-treaters from being injured on your property. Complete the checklist to make sure you’ve done your due diligence to prevent injuries during Halloween:

• Remove debris from your yard

• Fix any cracks in your sidewalk

• Fix any broken steps on your porch

• Warn visitors about any dangers

It’s important that someone is always outside of your home during the hours you expect trick-or-treaters. With someone supervising, you reduce your risk of filing a Halloween home insurance claim.

Protect Your Vehicle

Although not included in your home insurance, it’s important that you take steps to protect your automobiles. If you can, park your car in a garage or behind the house so people who prefer pranks over treats can’t throw eggs at or toilet paper your car. Beyond damaging your paint, pranksters could cause serious damage to your vehicle.

Use Faux Jack-O-Lanterns to Avoid Fires

Carving jack-o-lanterns for Halloween is a favorite tradition for many families. However, real jack-o-lanterns can be a fire hazard outside around strangers. Instead of using a real pumpkin lit with a burning flame, you can use faux jack-o-lanterns that are lit by a solar-powered light bulb. Your faux jack-o-lantern can still be a hit, and it should also be safe.

Get the coverage you need. Call Texas Risk Solutions at (210) 426-3053 for a Texas home insurance quote.