Halloween Safety Tips

It's October and that means that Halloween is on its way!  We love any excuse to celebrate around the office. However, we wouldn't be a good insurance agency if we didn't give a few good liability insurance tips for your home, too.

You've heard most Halloween advice over and over, but it's worth repeating:

• Pack a flashlight for when it gets dark.

• Make sure your young child (under 10) is accompanied by an adult; older children who aren’t with an adult should stay in groups of three or more.

• Put reflective tape on children's costumes..

• Check the candy they have collected before letting them eat any.

• Too much candy that night means a tummy ache or  trouble sleeping. Set a limit.

But what about the risks at your home?

Your homeowners insurance covers you if someone is injured on your property. But there are a few things you can do to prevent accidents before they happen:

1. Change your lightbulbs. Is your porch light burned out? What about lights along the sidewalks? Good lightning will help prevent children (and adults) from tripping.

2. Clear hazards. Tree limbs in your yard? A hole you've been meaning to fill? These are all potential hazards that could cause an injury and subject you to a liability claim. Clean them up before you have people trick-or-treating at your home!

3. No open flames. While candle-filled pumpkins are fun to make, they can be dangerous, too. If you use any open flame candles, make sure they are up high and away from any loose costume pieces.

4. Secure your pets. Pets, especially protective dogs, can be startled by the noise and costumes of approaching trick-or-treaters. Make sure you secure them in the house or back yard so they don’t suddenly get "spooked" and attack or injure any of the children.

5. Don't overdo your "tricks". While it’s always fun to have a few “tricks” in addition to the “treats” for unsuspecting kids, make sure you don’t create a trick that could cause bodily injury. Deliberate tripping hazards, falling objects or open flames should be avoided.

And the easiest way to protect yourself? Make sure you have plenty of liability insurance! Call SAV-ON today @ 888-867-2866 to schedule a free review and detailed explanation of how we can keep your home and family protected. It won't be scary at all!

October Is Fire Prevention Month

October is officially Fire Prevention Month. As your insurance agency, this is an issue that is very important to us! Unfortunately, we've seen clients suffer from home fires, and we want to share some things you can do to prevent a disaster.

Beyond basic fire prevention, like checking electrical cords and not leaving a pot unattended on the stove, there are several important things to do with your children or grandchildren to make sure they're safe.

Make an Escape Plan

First, create a plan and talk to your family about what to do in the event of a fire. When children know what to expect, they can remain calm, even during an emergency. Help your child know exactly what he or she should to do if a fire occurs.

Choose a Safe Meeting Spot

Stress the importance of getting out of the house and to your family meeting spot.  Choose an area a safe distance from the house where children should go if making a fire escape. It could be a street light, mailbox, or neighbor's tree.

If you have pets, tell your kids that your pets will find their own way out safely and that they should never go back to rescue the pet on their own. 

Identify Two Different Escape Routes

As a family, go through each room of the house and discuss TWO different ways to get out if a fire occurs. Let children practice opening a latch and unlocking doors too.

Home Fire Drill

Now host a fire drill! Make the practice drills fun and informative. Create sample scenarios and build up your kid's confidence. They'll be better prepared for a fire and you will too!

When it comes to any sort of emergency situation, people are what matter most. Take precautions to protect your loved ones and let your professional insurance agents take care of protecting your home and belongings!  Call SAV-ON at 888-867-2866 for a free quote on your homeowner's Insurance today!