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Coverage Review

The Importance of an Annual Insurance Review

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When it comes to insurance, the best policy is one that provides the right protection for you and your family — right now. That means as your life changes, your insurance coverage should, too.

In an ideal world, you’d call your insurance agent every time you finished a home renovation, bought a new vehicle or got a new job. But life is busy. And with all the responsibilities of work and family, evaluating your auto, home or life insurance coverage may fall pretty low on your priority list.

That’s why it’s helpful to have an insurance agent. Your agent can keep an eye on your policies and reach out to connect to make sure they’re still the right fit.

So if your agent calls (or texts or emails) and offers to review your coverage, here’s what you can expect. Or if you’re ready to review your policies you can download our free PDF printable checklist on what to tell your agent and what information to have handy.

WHAT IS A COVERAGE REVIEW?

A coverage review is a general check-in with your insurance agent. During the review, you’ll meet with  your ERIE agent and share any life changes that could affect your insurance needs. This information will be used to update your current policies and recommend additional coverages you may want to consider.

A coverage review is a good opportunity to ask questions and understand what your policies can (and can’t) cover. Your ERIE agent can also share real-life claims examples they’ve seen in your local area to help you avoid potentially costly coverage gaps.

Your agent may schedule an in-person meeting, or ask you to provide information over the phone or email — whatever works best for you.

Of course, you don’t need to wait for your agent to schedule a coverage review. You can also request one yourself! Just call, email or text your agent to get in touch.

WHAT INFORMATION WILL MY AGENT ASK FOR DURING A COVERAGE REVIEW?

During a coverage review, your agent will want to know about any life changes since you last connected. This may include:

  • Personal information: Make sure your agent has current information for you and your family. This includes your mailing address, phone number, email address and all the members of your household. Be sure to let them know of any name changes due to marriage or divorce, or if you’ve had a child since you last spoke — this may lead to a change in your policy beneficiaries. Having the correct information on file ensures there aren’t any delays in the event of a claim.
  • Covered drivers: When updating your auto insurance, your agent will need to know if there are any changes to the drivers covered under your policy. This could be a child that’s about to get their driver’s license or someone who’s living with you and regularly using your vehicle (Related: Am I Covered When I Lend My Car to Friends or Family?). If you’re considering a new vehicle, your agent can also provide a free quote.
  • Home updates: Have you upgraded your kitchen, transformed your bonus room or finished your basement? Major improvements like these increase the value of your home, which means you may need a higher limit on your homeowners policy. Without changing your limits, you may be left with a coverage gap t hat could leave you underinsured if you need torepair or rebuild your home if the unexpected happens. Ask your agent how guaranteed replacement cost can provide peace of mind.
  • New purchases: If you’ve bought any new “toys” — like a boat, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or golf cart— you may want a separate insurance policy. While insurance might not be required for watercraft and off-road vehicles, they still represent a significant investment that should be protected. The same holds true with valuables such as musical instruments or jewelry. Sending a copy of your updated home inventory to your agent will help them determine if you need to purchase personal valuables insurance.
  • Job changes: Let your agent know if there have been any changes with your employment. For example, if you’ve retired or are now working from home, the miles you save on your daily commute may result in a lower auto insurance rate. And if you recently earned a promotion, it may be time to review your life insurance policy to ensure you’ve got enough coverage — beyond what may be offered by your employer.

CAN MY AGENT HELP LOWER MY INSURANCE BILL?

Everyone likes saving money, right? Talk to your ERIE agent – they’ll work with you to ensure you’re getting the best price possible for the coverage you need.

Read more about available insurance discounts from ERIE or check out this list of ways you can save:

  • Safe driving discount: If you’re a safe driver with a good driving record, you could get a discount on your auto coverage. And in select states, ERIE’s free driving safety app, YourTurn® can help you earn rewards for safe driving*. With YourTurn®, drivers measure criteria like speeding, braking and phone usage to become more aware of their driving habits. As an added perk, you’ll earn a gift card for safe driving (up to $5 or $10 every two weeks). Learn more about YourTurn®.
  • Car safety equipment discounts: You can save on your insurance coverage if your car is equipped with safety equipment like factory-installed air bags, passive restraint2, anti-theft devices3 and anti-lock brakes.
  • Multi-car discount: If ERIE insures two or more of your vehicles, you could qualify for a discount. (All the vehicles in your household must be owned and used by the drivers we insure on the policy.)
  • Multi-policy discount: A discount is available if you have a qualifying life insurance policy1 or home policy in addition to your ERIE auto insurance.
  • Reduced usage discount: If you’re not using your car for at least 90 consecutive days during the policy period, you could be eligible for a discount on your car insurance2.
  • Young drivers: Unmarried drivers under age 21 who reside with their parents may be eligible for additional savings on their car insurance3.
  • Annual payment plan: You can save by paying your auto premium annually.
  • Changing your deductible: Generally, you can lower your insurance premium by raising your deductible. But if you’d prefer to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim, our diminishing deductible is available for about $30 more per year with the Erie Auto Plus4 endorsement. Your deductible diminishes for every year you do not have a claim.

GET CUSTOMIZED ADVICE FROM AN INSURANCE EXPERT.

At ERIE, we know every customer’s circumstance is different. That’s why we never work from a one-size-fits-all formula. Your ERIE agent will listen to you carefully and offer tailor-made solutions for your situation and your budget. Best of all — you’ll get outstanding coverage, great rates and service from local people who care.

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High Wind Advisory: What to Do Next

High Wind Advisory: What To Do Next

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When you think of storms that can cause wind damage, your mind might jump to recovering from a tornado or prepping for a hurricane.

But it doesn’t always take an extreme weather event for high winds to damage your home or car.

The National Weather Service issues a “high wind warning” when winds are sustained at speeds of 40 miles per hour or above. And there are plenty of conditions capable of producing these types of winds—including severe thunderstorms, cold fronts and atmospheric pressure variations.

When a windstorm hits, it has the potential to cause significant damage to homes and vehicles. For anyone left outside in the storm, it can also pose a threat to their personal safety.

The best way to protect yourself from high winds is to be prepared when they strike. Here are some high-wind safety tips to help ensure you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature blows your way.

HOW DO I PROTECT MYSELF DURING HIGH WINDS?

  • Get indoors. During a windstorm, the safest place to be is inside your home. High winds turn outdoor objects into flying projectiles and can topple trees and power lines. Once indoors, avoid the temptation to watch the storm. Stay away from windows to prevent being injured by broken glass.
  • Take shelter. If you’re unable to get indoors, you should try to find someplace to take cover. Avoid standing next to roadways or in other areas where the wind could blow you into an unsafe situation. If possible, try standing beside a building that can help block the gusts, or find a railing you can hold onto.
  • Pull over. If you’re driving in high winds, reduce your speed and keep both hands on the wheel. Watch out for flying debris and avoid driving beside cars in adjacent lanes as the wind could blow them into your path. If the wind is making driving difficult or if you feel unsafe, pull off the road and wait for the storm to pass. Just be sure to keep your hazard lights on and park away from trees or other objects that could fall on your vehicle.

HOW DO I PROTECT MY HOME FROM HIGH WINDS?

  • Trim your trees. Remove any dead trees and trim branches away from your home and power lines.
  • Secure shutters and gutters. Any loose items secured to your home could be ripped off by a strong gust of wind. If you know of any parts of your home—like shutters, gutters or siding—that have come loose, repair them before the storm hits.
  • Protect windows and doors. If you live in an area that frequently sees high winds, storm shutters can be a great investment to protect your windowpanes from being broken. But you can also cover them with half-inch marine plywood, if needed.
  • Store outdoor items. Patio furniture, trash cans and bicycles can easily be carried away by high winds, so bring them indoors before the storm hits.
  • Check your roof. In high winds, your roof can take a beating. Check for any loose shingles and consider impact-resistant shingles when installing a new roof. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) also recommends using roof strappings to anchor your home’s roof framing to the wall framing. This prevents high winds from lifting the roof off your house.
  • Call your insurance agent. Most standard homeowners insurance policies can cover wind damage, since wind is considered a covered peril. That means wind damage to your roof, windows and siding will generally be taken care of by your insurance company. But keep in mind that once a named storm (such as a hurricane) is forecasted, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get new insurance or make a policy change at the last minute. To ensure your home and property are properly covered, check in with your Erie Insurance agent before storm season starts. Also read our related article on how named storms may affect your insurance coverage.

HOW DO I PROTECT MY VEHICLES DURING HIGH WINDS?

  • Find covered parking. The best way to protect your vehicle is to park in a covered area. This is easy to do if your home has a garage or carport. If not, consider moving your vehicle somewhere with a covered parking deck, like at a nearby shopping mall.
  • Use a car cover. If you don’t have access to covered parking, car covers can offer an extra layer of protection. A padded cover will prevent flying debris from scratching your paint. It may even protect against dents and broken glass caused by falling objects. Just be sure to park far away from trees and utility poles.
  • Get comprehensive coverage. During high winds, flying debris can cause significant damage to your vehicle. Your auto insurance may cover the damage depending on the coverage you have. When something other than a car accident—such as flying debris, a falling tree branch or a flood—damages your car, that’s when comprehensive coverage would come into play. Comprehensive coverage is optional under your auto insurance policy.
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Prevent Home Water Damage

6 Ways to Prevent Home Water Damage

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It’s a fact of life that water backs up, overflows, floods and generally goes where it doesn’t belong.

Are you worried about water ruining your home? If so, the following list can help you spot – and fix – some of the most common home water damage problems. Some you can tackle on your own, but others are best left to the pros.

And since nothing is foolproof, extra insurance coverage can help if water still seeps in. Talk to an independent insurance agent, such as your local ERIE agent, about available add-ons to your homeowners insurance that can expand your protection to include different types of water damage.

HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM WATER DAMAGE?

The problem: Plumbing failure from frozen, rusted or leaky pipes

The fix: Remember, an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. Look for any telltale signs of leaks like unusually high water bills, mold or mildew growth, water stains on walls and warm spots on your floor. To prevent frozen pipes, keep your home’s temperature no lower than 55 degrees. Read more about what every homeowner should know about frozen pipes.

Level of difficulty: Easy – if you know what to look for and stop a minor problem before it becomes a bigger one.

The problem: Plumbing drain system failures

The fix: Drain system failures are more common when your local storm water system is tied to your home’s sewer system. To prevent problems, install a backflow prevention assembly in your drain system. Also, remember to refrain from pouring grease down your drain; instead, let it cool before bagging and trashing it.

Level of difficulty: While grease disposal is a no-brainer, it’s best to seek professional help installing a backflow prevention assembly.

Bonus tip: If you’re an ERIE customer, ask your agent if your homeowners policy includes Sewer or Drain Backup coverage1. Learn more about ErieSecure Home® bundles that include this valuable protection.

The problem: Weak washing machine hoses

The fix: Replace hoses every five years – and choose a reinforced steel-braided hose over a less durable rubber hose. And if your washer has seen better days, it might be time to replace the whole thing to prevent bigger issues. Learn more in our related post about when to replace major appliances.

Level of difficulty: Replacing a hose is a moderate job, if you’re somewhat handy. Otherwise, call your plumber.

The problem: Water heater failure

The fix: Replace the “sacrificial” anode rod that diverts corrosion away from the tank at least once every two years. Also, flush your tank every six months to prevent sediment buildup. (This is especially important if you have hard water.) Read more in our related post: 6 Reasons Why Water Heaters Fail.

Level of difficulty: Relatively easy. If you’re not handy, leave it to your plumber.

The problem: Pooling water against the wall of your house

The fix: Redirect the water with a water with a waterproof membrane or a French drain (a ditch in the ground inset with a perforated pipe that’s then covered with a layer of gravel). Learn more in our Q&A about French drains.

Level of difficulty: While adding the membrane isn’t a difficult job, a French drain installation is best left to the pros.

The problem: Weak roof coverings that let rain water seep in

The fix: Seal your roof to add an extra barrier against the water. Replacing a roof is one of the most expensive things a homeowner will encounter, so it’s also a good idea to understand how homeowners insurance can (and can’t) pay to replace a damaged roof.

Level of difficulty: Difficult as well as dangerous – leave any roof sealing jobs to a licensed roofer.

DON’T LET WATER DAMAGE SOAK YOUR WALLET.

Even the best precautions can’t prevent all home water damage. That’s why it helps to have the right insurance coverage to get life back to normal.

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Home-Value

Losing your Home – What is Guaranteed Replacement Cost?

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Losing your home to a natural disaster is something you prepare for but hope to never experience. One thing most may not consider is the actual cost to rebuild. Learn how Guaranteed Replacement Cost can help make sure you won’t be ill prepared to build your house back to its original condition.

What is Guaranteed Replacement Cost?

There are few things in life worse than losing your home to fire or a natural disaster.

Except, that is, discovering in the aftermath that you don’t have enough homeowners insurance coverage to rebuild the house back to the way it was before trouble struck.

If you get guaranteed replacement cost coverage, that is unlikely to happen. Why? Because guaranteed replacement cost will pay for the full cost of rebuilding your house back to its previous size and specifications1 – right down to the granite countertops, custom bookshelves, and gleaming hardwood floors that you so love.

WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER GUARANTEED REPLACEMENT COST?

“Guaranteed replacement cost gives you peace of mind,” says Bob Buckel, vice president and product manager at Erie Insurance. “The reality is that it’s almost impossible to estimate to the penny what it’s going to cost to rebuild a home. We take that worry away from you.”

With the everchanging price of building materials and labor, it’s easy to see why GRC is the gold standard for homeowners insurance.

REPLACEMENT COST VS. MARKET VALUE: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

When you purchase a home and start thinking about protecting your investment, this is often the first question. The answer is often: More than you just paid for it, Buckel says.

See also: How Much Does Homeowners Insurance Cost?

“People naturally gravitate to how much they paid for the house, but we’re not insuring it to buy it from you – we’re insuring it to rebuild it in case something happens,” Buckel says. “The question you need to be asking is, ‘How much would it cost if a builder needs to rebuild it?”

This is why replacement cost is often more than market value for your home, or even what you might be able to sell it for.

Figuring out rebuilding costs can be elusive, as a range of factors contribute to what that actual cost might be. Guaranteed replacement cost takes the guesswork out, assuring that you’re covered – even if you need to rebuild your entire home1.

WHAT ARE LOSS SETTLEMENT OPTIONS IN HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE?

Guaranteed replacement cost is one of a range of choices – called “loss settlement options” in the business – which insurance companies offer to homeowners.

Common loss settlement options include:

  • Replacement cost
  • Extended replacement cost
  • Actual cash value
  • Guaranteed replacement cost

Each one works a little bit differently. Different insurance companies offer different things, too. (For example: ERIE does not offer actual cash value loss settlement for the dwelling on your primary home – it’s only available for secondary homes and contents. You’ll learn more about actual cash value below.)

Here’s a breakdown of some of those key differences:

Replacement Cost vs. Guaranteed Replacement Cost

That one word – guaranteed – makes a big difference if you’re facing a total loss of your home. Here’s what makes replacement cost different from guaranteed replacement cost.

  • What is replacement cost? When you’re issued a policy with just replacement cost, the insurance company works with you to project how much it would likely cost to fully replace your home. You can see the replacement cost and the specific limit for your policy on your declarations page. Replacement cost is provided up to the limit shown on the declarations page.
  • What to expect with replacement cost: The replacement cost amount usually gets increased annually – normally by 2 to 5%each year, depending on your area. In periods of high inflation, the increase could be much higher.

Here’s the big difference: If your home is destroyed and a builder actually estimates that the cost to rebuild is more than that replacement cost figure… then you, as the homeowner, are responsible to make up the difference. That’s why it’s important as a homeowner to make sure you know and are comfortable with how much your home is insured for.

  • Here’s an example: If your home is insured at a replacement cost of $200,000, and in reality it is going to cost $250,000 to rebuild, then you either need to come up with an additional $50,000 or find ways to reduce costs… which could result in a smaller, less-appointed house than you originally had.

The premium amount you pay for replacement cost compared to guaranteed replacement cost is typically about the same, although some factors unique to your situation may make one or the other more expensive.

Extended Replacement Cost vs. Guaranteed Replacement Cost

Think of extended replacement cost like a predetermined amount of cash you can dip into in case the cost to rebuild runs high. Still, it’s not the same as guaranteed replacement cost. Here’s how it works:

  • What is extended replacement cost? With extended replacement cost, your insurance company assures that a financial cushion exists in the event that cost of rebuilding is more than the estimated replacement cost.
  • What to expect with extended replacement cost: Specifically with Erie Insurance, that cushion is 25 percent above the dwelling amount, as shown on your declarations page.

While 25 percent may seem like a lot, there are often circumstances that cause costs to soar well beyond that.

See also: How Named Storms Affect Your Insurance Coverage

“When a hurricane or tornado does a lot of damage in a specific area, the cost to rebuild skyrockets,” Buckel says. “Everyone is trying to rebuild, and the cost of lumber, labor and building supplies all go up. If you don’t have the right coverage, you are not going to have nearly enough to rebuild.”

  • Here’s an example: For a home insured at $300,000, extended replacement cost would give you an extra $75,000 to work with. Yet again, if costs go beyond that extra $75,000… you are on the hook to make up the difference, or rebuild a smaller home.

Premium costs for extended replacement cost are generally comparable to guaranteed replacement cost, although some factors unique to your situation may make one or the other more expensive.

Actual Cash Value vs. Guaranteed Replacement Cost

In simple terms, actual cash value is basic coverage. While there’s no doubt that actual cash value is typically your least expensive option, there is also truth in the old saying, you get what you pay for.

  • What is actual cash value? With actual cash value, you get coverage for a pre-determined set amount to rebuild your home after a covered loss… and no more. Compared to guaranteed replacement cost, actual cash value often offers the least attractive option as you will likely be required to pay out-of-pocket costs if you aim to restore your home to its previous design and condition.
  • What to expect with actual cash value: Some policies also factor in depreciation of things such as an aging roof – so you may end up with even less than the policy states.

See also: Do You Have The Right Coverage For Your Roof?

As we mentioned above: ERIE does not offer actual cash value loss settlement for the dwelling on your primary home – it’s only available for secondary homes and contents.

ASK A LOCAL ERIE AGENT ABOUT GUARANTEED REPLACEMENT COST

Of course, the ideal scenario is that you will never need to use guaranteed replacement cost coverage. Yet, if you do need it, you can rest assured that guaranteed replacement cost coverage will provide the money necessary to rebuild without requiring you to shell out additional cash.

“If it’s a covered loss and costs run high, we will pay whatever the difference is,” Buckel says. “It’s on us, not you.”

Good news for ERIE customers: Guaranteed replacement cost is included in our base ErieSecure Home® policy, a feature that will cost you extra with most insurers2.

Upgrading your homeowners insurance to include guaranteed replacement cost is simple1. Just contact your local ERIE agent to make it happen.

1Guaranteed Replacement Cost applies to dwelling and requires home improvements over $5,000 to be reported within 90 days – not available with all policies and in all states. Coverage of costs to comply with laws or ordinances is subject to limits. Depreciation will be deducted until repair or replacement is made. Talk to an ERIE agent for more information.

2The information in this blog is a summary and does not include all coverages and benefits available through an ErieSecure Home® policy or apply to all states. Coverage, benefits, limits and deductibles will vary. Conditions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Refer to our disclaimer for more information. Talk to an ERIE agent for state specific policy information.

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Winterize

How to Winterize Your Home to Save Energy Costs

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There’s no denying it: Winter is on its way.

Winterizing your home can help lower your energy bills, prevent bigger more costly repairs later on and reduce the risk of accidents like a home heating fire. (Side note: That’s why having the right homeowners insurance can give you peace of mind, too.)

Ready? Keep reading to walk through the big list of projects to tackle this fall, or download our free PDF printable on how to winterize your home.

FALL HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Indoors:

  • Windows and doors: Prevent chilly drafts (and pricey heating bills) by checking and replacing any worn weather stripping and caulking any cracks. For loose-fitting doors, slide a draft guard or rolled-up towel underneath to fill the gap. Drapes, curtains, shades and blinds can also help reduce heat loss, according to energy.gov. For your chimney, floors, vents and more, these tips can keep cold air out of your house.
  • Fireplace: Check your fireplace and flue system to remove soot or ashes. Check for cracks that could be a fire hazard. If you’re not planning on using your fireplace at all, invest in a chimney balloon, which is a device designed to safely block the opening. (Just remember to take it out before you build a fire next season.) Most importantly, know what fixes are safe for you to tackle and what should be in the hands of a certified chimney sweep with training and proper equipment. Whether this is your first year or fifth year with your chimney, you might need an inspection. Read this guide on chimney inspections.
  • Furnace: Before you turn up the heat for the season, start by changing (or cleaning) your furnace filter. (Not sure how to change your furnace filter? Check out these tips.) It’s also a good idea to have an HVAC professional check your furnace once per year. And if you can’t remember the last time you had your heating ducts checked for leaks and efficiency, an HVAC professional can help with that, too.
  • Thermostat: For every degree you lower your home’s temperature during the winter, you can save as much as 1%on your energy bill (according to the U.S. Department of Energy). If you have an older thermostat, consider replacing it with a smart model to save on heating costs. Many new thermostats have algorithms to learn your comings and goings so you’re not paying to keep your home toasty warm when you’re not around. Read these additional energy-saving tips for when the cold weather hits.
  • Other home heating:  We know they’re cozy but be extra cautious when using space heaters. Space heaters cause an estimated 44% of house fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Regardless of how you heat your home, read these tips on using home heating sources safely.
  • Drafts and cracks: Cold air will take advantage of any opportunity to sneak into your home. Here’s a list of quick fixes for drafty places:
    • Outlets and switch plates: Use foam-insulating sheets to block cold air coming in from exterior walls.
    • Exposed ducts: Check your attic, basement, and crawl spaces and use sealant to plug up any leaks or cracks on exposed ducts.
    • Floors: Don’t underestimate the power of a thick, cozy rug. Your floors can account for as much as 10% of heat loss in a house.
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: While you’re in the process of prepping your house for the long winter, check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are in good working order. Also, with the increased risk of fire in winter, it’s important to have a family escape plan. You can create a family fire escape plan using these seven tips.

Outdoors:

  • Gutters: Clogged gutters, and subsequent water issues, can cause a lot of problems, like foundation problems, wall and ceiling damage, or even insect infestations. (Read more in our related post about what can happen if you don’t clean your gutters.) Start by clearing debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent them from leaking or sagging. Just make sure you do it safely – use a tall, sturdy ladder (check out our guide to picking the best ladder for your DIY job), and don’t forget protective eyewear, gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself against debris, bacteria and pests.
  • Roof: Snow can be a heavy burden for an old or damaged roof to handle. Before winter hits, inspect your roof for signs of potential problems, like missing, broken, blistered or curling shingles; cracked caulk or rust spots; or large patches of moss and lichen. Any damaged, loose or missing shingles should be repaired right away.
  • Trees and landscaping: It’s a good idea to trim any branches hanging near electric wires before they become a problem. Also, know how to spot the signs of a diseased or dying tree. Heavy snow and strong winter winds can knock down weak branches (or whole trees), so it’s best to do the prep work while the weather’s still mild.
  • Lawn equipment: Drain the oil and gas from your mower before storing it for the off-season. Gasoline can separate and spoil in only a few weeks, which could potentially damage your engine.
  • Snow removal supplies: Before the first snow, you’ll be glad you thought ahead and bought supplies early. Inspect the bolts, belts and parts on your snowblower; make sure your snow shovel is in good shape; stock up on ice melt or sand; and invest in a snow rake to help clear your roof. Snow accumulation on your roof that exceeds 20 pounds per square foot can be dangerous.
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How To Prepare Your House for Trick-or-Treaters

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Prepare Your House for Trick-or-TreatersIt’s nearly Halloween — the time for superhero capes, princess tiaras and children scampering from porch to porch.

No matter the trick-or-treaters’ game plan, they are ready for a candy bonanza – and that starts with a knock at your door. So don’t let slips, trips and falls dampen anyone’s night. Make sure you fit in a simple safety check before you fill the candy bowl.

If you plan on welcoming trick-or-treaters this year, we have nine tips to help you get ready.

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS

  1. Clear the walkways. Toys, rakes, errant stones — clear them all out of the way before trick-or-treating starts. (Wet leaves are an especially slippery culprit!) A quick clean-up is one of the easiest ways to make your home safer from slip, trip and fall hazards
  2. Light it up. Turn on your exterior lights, including any flood lights, to help create a safe path for trick-or-treaters. Check these early so you have time to replace any burned-out bulbs.
  3. Corral your pets. With all the doorbells and visitors, Halloween can be stressful for your animals  – and even a well behaved pet can bite or scratch when they feel anxious. A constantly opening door makes it easy for furry friends to escape, too A better idea? Keep pets in a secured room or wing of the house.
  4. Lock all other doors. Mischief can happen when you’re doling out candy, so play it safe by locking all of your other doors. (That includes any garage and car doors, too!) The FBI reports that approximately 30% of all burglaries are committed without force courtesy of an unlocked door or window.
  5. Check your railing. If it feels rickety, take the time to secure it in place.
  6. Skip candles. Yes, they give your pumpkins that spooky glow. But a live flame isn’t worth the fire risk you consider all the draping costumes and accessories that will whiz by the flame. Pro tip: Opt for the flameless variety instead.
  7. Consider your candy choices. Many kids are allergic to candy ingredients like nuts. To help them enjoy the holiday, The Teal Pumpkin Project encourages leaving a teal pumpkin on your stoop to let trick-or-treaters know that you have non-food treats like stickers and toys on hand.
  8. Pick a good spot. If you have a lot of stairs or a long, winding path, consider handing out candy at the end of your driveway. Another option is to host a ‘trunk-or-treat’ event at another location.
  9. Comb your yard. With all luck, the kiddos will stay on sidewalks and driveways. But they may wander. Clear out sticks, objects or other tripping hazards from your yard.

Check out these blogs for more tips and tricks (the good kind) on Halloween safety:

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