Many families are choosing to stay at home this Halloween due to the pandemic. With colorfully lit decorations and virtual parties, everyone can still have a good time while snacking on their candy. But with a reliance on a electricity this season, make sure your homeowners insurance is up-to-date before stringing up those spooky lights. 

How Do You Have a Fun Halloween at Home?

1. Home Decorations 

Halloween has a specific atmosphere that parents can cultivate. String orange, black, and white lights inside or outside the house. Many come in different Halloween-styled designs, like spider webs and pumpkins. For extra spooky fun, there are affordable fog machines available in stores and online. 

Whether setting up indoor or outdoor lights, don't overload the electrical outlets. A surge can damage the wiring, cut power in the house, and even spark a fire. While your homeowners insurance will cover the cost of repairs, filing the claim can be prevented with a surge protector or two. Many people also daisy chain extension cords, which can lead to overheating. Choose optimal spots to decorate that are nearest to the outlets. 

The kids can also help with the decorations. They can paint pumpkins, cut out black cats, spiders, witch hats, and ghouls and display them throughout the home. 

2. Buy Treats

Kids may not be going door-to-door this year, but that doesn't mean they can't have candy. Buy assortment packs of various treats and put them in a large bowl to pick at during Halloween. Or try engaging them by getting their help in making homemade treats.

3. Costume Contests

Coordinate with neighbors and other parents to schedule a costume contest over video chatting apps, like Zoom, Messenger, WhatsApp, or Hangouts. The kids will still be able to dress up and see their friends, but in a safer capacity than a house party. 

If it's just going to be the family, bob for apples, have a scavenger hunt, or have sack races in the backyard. 

4. Small Parties

Ohio has restricted gatherings to no more than 10 people. If you're planning on hosting, choose close family members and friends who you've already engaged with socially as the restrictions have lightened. Be sure to use paper plates and cups that can be disposed of quickly. 

If you've decorated the inside of the home, make sure that there are no obstructions and provide adequate lighting in the house to prevent accidents. 

Before decorating your property for Halloween, make sure your homeowners insurance is up to the task. For nearly 50 years, families have relied on Simmons Insurance Group of Southeastern Ohio for peace of mind regardless of the season. They have six locations in Coolville, OH, and its surrounding areas. All of them are staffed with experienced agents who will help you find the coverage you need at a price you can afford. For more information on their services, visit their website. To schedule an appointment, call (740) 667-3111.