For No Mere Mortal Can Resist the Evil of the Thriller

Halloween is in just a few days and the last time Halloween fell on a weekend was in 2008.  You are ready for an all-out scare fest and giving away massive amounts of candy to every ghoul and goblin that comes your way.  You have thought of everything, the candy, the decorations, the jack-o-lanterns, and the scary music, what more could you possibly do to prepare for the best night of the year.  It turns out, a lot, if you also consider the liability that comes along with Halloween.  First off, the decorations certainly give an aura of fear but make sure that they do not go too far.  If your yard is covered with graves, spider webs, skeletons etc., make sure it is well lit so that those who come into your yard can see the possible hazards and won’t trip over anything.  Think like a kid who either runs up excitedly to get candy or away from anything too scary.  If someone falls and becomes injured you, could be liable since it happened on your property.    You may love the jack-o-lanterns, with their eerie glowing faces lit by flame, but they can be easily knocked over and many costumes and decorations can be highly flammable.  Try using a battery operated tea light instead of candles to make it safer for all. 

Besides all of the little visitors that may come knocking at your door, there are a few other critters that deserve your consideration.  If you have pets that will be out of sorts with all the activity going on at your home, it is best to keep them in a closed room or kennel, to avoid any possible mishap that can occur.  Also, it is safer for them to not be near any possible items that may inadvertently fall to the floor that can be poisonous to their constitutions.  Chocolate, I am looking at you.  Since Halloween fall on a weekend, you may have more guests over to your home than usual.  So many people I know are having costume parties, and not just for the kiddies.  If you are going to serve alcohol, please be responsible and limit the amount that people drink.  Better yet collect keys at the door, ensure everyone has a designated driver or be prepared for overnight guests who have drank a little too much witch’s brew.  You wouldn’t think it, but Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights when it comes to drunk driving, even more than New Year’s Eve.  If it is determined that your guest was served too much and caused an accident, you could be held responsible.  It is best to prepare yourself for a great night of scares and thrills and to keep all of your guests, whether little ghouls and goblins, or big witches and vampires, safe and healthy on this All Hallows Eve.