Halloween conjures up images of ghosts and goblins, candied apples and lots of candy. But it also involves increased risks for pedestrians, property owners and drivers. "This year Halloween falls on a Friday night so there will be more parties, more cars and more trick-or-treaters traveling on dark streets throughout unfamiliar neighborhoods. With these extra hazards it's easy to forget about the increased potential for homeowners or auto insurance claims," said Christopher Hackett, PCI director of personal lines policy. "There are simple steps that every homeowner and driver can take to help make it a safe and claim-free Halloween." According to insurer Obrella, children are twice as likely to be killed by a car while they are out trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Eighty-one percent more car vandalism claims occur on October 31^st than on other nights. And property owners are more likely to be the targets of vandals or other unfortunate accidents. Here are some tips to reduce the risks of Halloween and make it a bootiful evening. |

Costumes

Safety for fairies, ghosts and goblins starts with costumes that allow the little monsters to have clear peripheral vision and sight lines. Costumes that are light in color provide greater visibility at night for drivers, bikers and other pedestrians. Reflective tape on the costumes, light sticks, light sabers, glow in the dark jewelry and accessories are excellent ways to make children visible at night. It's also important that the costume fit well so the child can move easily and won't trip over the costume or shoes. Flame retardant costumes also provide an extra measure of protection in case someone gets too close to a jack-o-lantern. |

Decorations

While decorating for Halloween seems to have taken on a life of its own over the past five years, homeowners should beware that decorations can cause liability claims. Blow-up items that need to be anchored onto the lawn can become trip and fall hazards for trick-or-treaters. Make sure to keep the front door and walkways well lit and free of anything that could cause visitors to fall. Using candles in carved pumpkins and other decorations can make them a fire hazard. The National Fire Protection Association reports that Halloween decorations cause more than 1,000 fires annually. When using real candles, do not leave them unattended or where they can be easily knocked over; be especially cautious around costumes and pets; and blow them out when the party is over. Battery operated candles can be a safer alternative. Property owners should leave exterior lights on to discourage vandals and bring in any valuables or items that could be easily stolen or used as projectiles. |

Watch your trick-or-treaters

Obrella recommends that children under the age of 12 be accompanied by an adult. Children older than 12 may be mature enough to go without a parent on familiar streets with other children, but they should stay in well-lit areas and travel with their group. Pets should be kept on a leash when traveling with the group and not encouraged to jump on children. At home they should not be allowed to rush the door when the doorbell rings or the door opens. Aggressive animals should be kept away from children. |

Pedestrian safety

Since children are more than twice as likely to be killed by a car on Halloween night, it's important for them to be alert and observe traffic rules like crossing at intersections or designated walkways. In addition to looking both ways before crossing the street, they should be aware that cars will also be turning and possibly even backing up or turning around. Always walk on the sidewalk or on the grass instead of the road. Children who have cell phones should be reminded of the importance of keeping their eyes on the road and their surroundings instead of looking at their phones. |

Driver safety

Drivers and their cars are also at risk. They should be aware that small pedestrians may walk between parked cars, so it's important to drive slowly through densely populated areas. Focusing on driving and avoiding distractions is crucial since glancing down at a phone or changing a radio station can have fatal consequences. Use extra caution when turning or backing up. According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, from 2008 to 2012 the average cost per vandalism claim was $1,528, costing well over $1 million a day. Since Halloween is popular night for vandals, park in well-lit areas or in a garage. Lock all doors, put the windows up and remove any visible valuables to reduce the temptation of a snatch and grab. Clean any suction cup rings from the windshield, remove stereo faceplates and store any chargers out of sight. When parking away from home, stay away from areas where vandals could hide such as dumpsters, shrubs or large vehicles. Taking a few practical precautions can reduce the risks and make for a much more enjoyable evening.