By H. GARRETT DROEGE

Droege

Halloween is a time of fun and excitement for the kid in all of us.  But it can present some “frightening” consequences for the ill-prepared.  As an insurance adviser, I tend to think in terms of doom-and-gloom year-round, and can come up with a bad scenario for almost any occasion.  But, Halloween has some pretty standard risks that we all should be concerned about.  Below are a few safety tips for a safe and Happy Halloween.

When are people in Davidson trick-or-treating? Sunday! More about that and Friday’s Downtown Davidson Halloween March, CLICK HERE>

• Drive Safely – Please remember that children are everywhere on Halloween night; streets, sidewalks, parking lots, yards, etc.  You need to be alert at all times.  Most costumes are dark and difficult to see.  Drive slowly, especially in neighborhoods, and, as always, it is very important to not drink and drive.
• Make The Rules – Your children should know your expectations of them and how to behave.  All children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult and should have their candy checked before consumption.  All kids should know their curfew and know the difference between a “trick” and vandalism.   The best rule is that everyone stays together in a group.
• Risk-Check the Costume – Try to have some reflective or bright material on the costume so your child can be seen by motorists.  And be careful in using face masks as they can reduce visibility for your child.  Always write your address and phone number inside the child’s costume for emergencies.
• Being Safe – Insist on carrying a flashlight and always use sidewalks when possible.  Teach your children to avoid going in dark alleys or behind homes that are not well lit.  Trick-or-Treat in neighborhoods with good lighting and that are well known in the community.  Look for homes that are decorated and have lights on, and never enter a home – only take candy at the front door.  Inspect all candy prior to eating it, and throw out any “homemade” treats or old looking candy – sorry, Grandma.
• Protect Your Home – Make sure your home is well lit and all obstructions have been removed.  If you have dogs, make sure they are restrained.  When you are leaving or going to bed make sure all lights, candles, Jack-O-Lanterns and other fire hazards are off.  Many people like to leave the decorations on, and while it does look pretty, it’s not worth burning your home down to impress everyone with your pumpkin carving skills.

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!

Garrett Droege is an agent at J.J. Wade Insurance Agency in Davidson. For more tips and a few pieces of candy, visit the agency at 208 S. Main St., Davidson, during the annual Downtown Davidson Halloween March on Friday, Oct. 29.

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