It's a night full of treats for both kids and adults in Columbia. But a number of factors - including lots of people walking in the dark, the threat of wet and stormy weather, strangers coming to your door - mean that Halloween in South Carolina can have some tricks up its sleeve.

Lamplighter Insurance wants your Halloween to be a happy one. So whether you're taking your kids out trick-or-treating, hosting a party or just staying home to greet costumed visitors, we can help make your evening safe while you take care of making it spooky. Just check out the tips below - and, as always, don't hesitate to call us at 803-451-0076 if you have questions about your costume ... er, coverage.

Make your kids' costumes scary - and safe

• Make sure costumes are made of flame-resistant material. When wearing your costume, do not walk near lit candles or luminaries.
• Add reflective tape to costumes and bags to increase your visibility to drivers.
• Masks and costumes should be properly fitted to avoid blocked vision and falls.
• Swords, knives and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.

Safe trick-or-treating in South Carolina

• Trick-or-treaters should walk in groups or with a trusted adult. Do not allow kids to go out alone.
• Make sure kids know their home phone number as well as how to call 911.
• Flashlights and glow sticks can help with visibility while trick-or-treating.
• Kids should only enter a home if they’re with a trusted adult. Otherwise, stay outside.
• All treats should be examined for choking hazards and tampering. Homemade treats should not be eaten unless you know the cook well.
• Of course, it's a good idea to limit the number of treats your children (and you!) eat. One way to encourage this is by having a full, healthy meal before going out trick-or-treating.

Having a party? Expecting trick-or-treaters at your house?

• Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit, and free of obstacles.
• Keep candles (including lit jack o'lanterns) away from doorsteps, walkways, landings and curtains.
• Remind drivers coming to and from your home to watch out for trick-or-treaters and drive slowly through neighborhoods.

Carving those pumpkins

Creating a jack o'lantern is a time-honored tradition, whether you buy your pumpkins at the grocery store or at a local pumpkin farm. But don't forget, kids and knives are a dangerous combination. It's best to have the kids draw designs on the pumpkin with a marker and then let an adult handle the carving. And here's a great idea for kids who want to remove the seeds - rather than using a knife, hand them an ice-cream scoop. It's a lot safer, and it just might be more effective!

Help keep Halloween safe for everyone - and remember, your kids WILL know if you swipe some treats from their stash!

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