Haunted Yards

Trick-or-treaters will be running up your front walk, bags out, ready for their chocolate and Smarties. Make sure they don't trip on anything in the yard by removing obstacles in their path:

• Brooms Aren't Just for Witches--Keep your walkways clear by sweeping up slippery leaves, putting away garden tools and rolling up hoses.

• Haunted Graveyards--Make sure all decorations are kept off walkways, but close enough to give kids (and adults) a fright.

Erie Lighting

The spooky and dark Halloween night doesn't need to be midnight black. Keep your porch and walkways properly lit to prevent falls. Remember this little bit of Halloween etiquette:

• Lights on= come get candy.

• Lights off= witching hour has passed.

Smiling Jack-O-Lanterns

Nothing says harvest and Halloween like a good old fashion Jack-o-Lantern. Here are some safety tips for carving and enjoying your own spooky pumpkin:

• Carving up Jack--It is best to let adults or older children wield the carving knife (safety knives are best), and always have parental supervision.

• Lighting up Jack--If you use a regular candle, keep combustibles and flammable items away, and keep the lid off the top of the pumpkin to let heat escape. If you are worried about fire danger, try using a battery powered light, or consider painting an un-carved pumpkin.

Frightful Flickering Flames

We all love to look outside on Halloween night and see the glowing lights of candles and Jack-o-Lanterns in people's yards. Unfortunately, many of these festive lights can become fires if not watched properly:

• Flickering Flames--Keep harvest decorations like straw, corn husks, scarecrows, and other combustibles away from open flames.

• Superman's Cape--Get your child a fire resistant costume and mask. Keep Jack-o-Lanterns away from flowing capes and swirling gowns.

• Test your smoke alarms.

Fido and Fluffy

Halloween isn't just for little kids. Since our pets are part of the family we want them to be included in the holiday fun. Keep open flames, like Jack-o-Lanterns, out of Mischief's reach. Make sure Rover won't be able to munch on decorations like fake spider webs, which could be toxic.

• Dogs--The ASPCA recommends keeping dogs in a back room so they are away from the front door and don't get spooked. You don't want your pup to jump on trick-or-treaters, or bite them. Even cute little dogs dressed as pirates can get a little crazy on Halloween (probably because the door bell won't stop ringing). Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bite liability, as long as Rex has been disclosed to your insurance company.

• Cats--Halloween decorations often feature black cats, but there are some who would do little Garfield harm. Keep kitty safe in a back room or garage, away from the front door and ringing doorbell, so he can't make a mad escape.