Halloween’s trick-or-treaters and festive jack-o-lanterns can bring a touch of fright to more than just your doorstep—they may also pose risks to your homeowners insurance policy.
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Travelers Insurance reports a 14% increase in homeowners insurance claims on Halloween compared to the rest of the year, with theft on property claims surging by 46%. Incidents like slips and falls, theft, fires, and pet-related accidents are among the potential hazards associated with Halloween festivities.
“Not every incident results in an insurance claim, but they can certainly happen throughout the night,” notes Angi Orbann, vice president of property and personal insurance product management at Travelers Insurance.
The scary reality is that Halloween is often just the start of these risks, which can continue throughout the holiday season as foot traffic around your home increases.
“Primarily, the two biggest concerns are fire and liability,” says Loretta Worters, spokeswoman for the Insurance Information Institute.
From 2018 to 2022, the average homeowners insurance claim resulting from fire and lightning amounted to $83,991, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Meanwhile, the average liability claims for bodily injury or property damage cost around $31,690.
“With all the Halloween excitement and trick-or-treaters, it’s important to keep pathways safe and accessible,” Orbann emphasizes.
The impact of such claims on your insurance premium depends on factors like the type of claim, the frequency of claims filed, your location, and the extent of the damage, according to industry experts.
“You might see a surcharge on your policy in the following year after a claim is filed,” warns Orbann.
To reduce potential hazards this Halloween and beyond, consider these three essential safety steps:
Reduce Hazards for Guests
Minimize risks in walkways and entryways, particularly when it’s dark and visibility is limited. “With all the Halloween festivities and trick-or-treaters, it’s critical to ensure the safety and accessibility of your home,” says Orbann.
Ensure pathways are clear and well-lit to help visitors see better, especially if it has snowed; shovel and salt your walkway to ensure clear, safe access for party guests, carolers, and other holiday visitors, advises Worters.
Hosting a holiday gathering where alcohol is served? Be mindful of liability risks, as you could be held responsible for accidents involving intoxicated guests. “If you notice someone who’s had too much to drink, don’t let them drive,” Worters advises, suggesting options like limiting alcohol and encouraging the use of rideshares.
Manage Fire Risks
Seasonal decorations, from light displays to Christmas trees and candles, can increase fire risk, especially if left unattended. “For safety, we recommend using LED or battery-powered lights rather than live candles,” says Orbann.
Worters agrees: “A Christmas tree fire can lead to total loss of a home.”
If you opt for a live tree, remember to keep it well-watered and away from flammable materials. Worters also points out that cooking fires are a leading cause of household fires and injuries. She suggests avoiding cooking if you’re drowsy and being cautious with turkey fryers, a popular but risky Thanksgiving cooking method.
Protect Pets and Valuables
Securing pets is essential on Halloween to keep both them and trick-or-treaters safe, Orbann advises, and the same applies to other holiday gatherings.
Coverage for pet-related incidents may vary by insurance provider, with some policies excluding specific breeds. “If a dog isn’t trained and causes harm, it could significantly increase your liability insurance,” warns Worters.
Holidays can also see a spike in theft risks, particularly as online shopping and package deliveries rise. Orbann recommends securing packages and possibly installing smart home devices, like cameras or doorbells, to deter potential theft. “Consider asking a neighbor to keep an eye on your home as well,” she adds.
By following these steps, you can better safeguard your home, your guests, and your belongings from Halloween risks and holiday hazards.
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