10 Tips for Safely Installing Halloween Decorations

Halloween is the spooky season. While turning your place into a haunted house may be great fun, you don't want to land in a truly scary spot like the emergency room. We want to help you stay safe this year with some tips on how to decorate windows, stairs, and even your roof.

1. Check your ladder

If you plan on climbing onto your roof, always check your ladder first. Make sure it's sturdy enough to support your weight and tall enough to reach the highest points you want to decorate. 

2. Wear a harness

We recommend that you wear a harness and choose the best anchor point to stay secure. The harness will catch if you fall and stop you from hitting the ground. Never attach a harness to your gutters, as they are not strong enough. You can call Gutter Helmet if you damage your gutters when setting up or taking down your Halloween decorations.

3. Avoid slip hazards

While you can get creative with the way you decorate your stairs, avoid slip hazards. Never put plastic or vinyl decorations directly on the stairs. Avoid putting loose decorations on the railing, as they can fall off.

4. Never use nails and electronics

When it comes to hanging Halloween lights, you might not think twice about using nails or screws. However, they can fray or otherwise damage the cord and become a fire hazard. Work with reusable hooks or poster putty instead.

5. Consider power lines

If you hang decorations outside, consider the location of nearby power lines. Never place cords or electronics near the lines. Use caution when setting up your decorations to ensure you don't hit the lines.

6. Break up dark colors

Using too many dark items on your windows is a potential problem. Birds can crash into the windows and break the glass. You also risk thieves thinking your home is empty because it looks so dark. Try breaking things up with some bright colors like orange and white.

7. Don't overload outlets

Never overload your outlets or extension cords. In most cases, it's best to use only three decorations per cord or outlet.

8. Focus on the inside

Instead of spending a lot of time outside, focus on decorating the inside of your home. It's easier to stay safe inside. 

9. Beware of tripping hazards

Stay alert for tripping hazards as you hang holiday lights and other decorations. Never display any loose or hanging objects near where people walk.

10. Consider a timer for your lights

Avoid the risk of injury later in the season with a timer. You won't need to climb on the roof, stand on the stairs, or get close to a window to turn the lights on and off. Timers even work with Halloween inflatables.

Halloween is scary enough without risking your health. Use these tips to stay safe while hanging your decorations. Follow us on Instagram, or check us out on Facebook to get more tips for Halloween decorating. Happy haunting!