This article has been updated from a previous version.
This year, Halloween is a little different because of the COVID-19 pandemic; however, trick-or-treating can go ahead in Ontario. Parents have new considerations and safety measures to bear in mind, including using hand sanitizer frequently and incorporating face coverings. But there are also things drivers and homeowners need to do to stay safe and ensure everyone has an enjoyable Halloween.
Not only can the following tips help keep kids safe, but they can also make sure a scary, unexpected car insurance or home insurance claim doesn’t jump out at you when you least expect it.
Even in an average year, Halloween can haunt property owners. According to research from Travelers Insurance, crime-related home insurance claims rise by 24% on October 31.
Most insurance claims from that night are linked to property damage and burglaries. There’s also an increased risk of collisions happening, which may impact your insurance. Think about making plans to mitigate your risk and liability.
If you are venturing out this Halloween, be aware a vacant house is more likely to be broken into because no one is home. Be sure to take the necessary steps to protect your property. But it’s not just your home that’s at risk.
Homeowner liability risk also rises dramatically on October 31, so you need to be mindful of how well you maintain your property and prepare for the possibility you’ll have trick-or-treaters at your door.
If you want to keep your home, family, and visitors to your property safe this Halloween, here are ways to do so:
Suppose you plan on using decorative lights indoors or outdoors. In that case, the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs recommends using lights certified by a recognized organization such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the Underwriters’ Laboratory of Canada (ULC or C-UL). Also, check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections. Discard damaged sets and don’t overload extension cords.
Your car is also at a higher risk on Halloween night. Your car insurance policy will take care of you in case of any unforeseen incident, but there’s no point in risking a hike in your premium when there are preventative measures you can take.
Personal vehicle vandalism is nearly twice as likely on Halloween than on average. Here are a few things you can do to lower that risk:
Given the usual dangers that come out on Halloween night, it’s an excellent time to review your home and auto insurance policies to make sure you have adequate coverage all year long.