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    Halloween Safety

    Welcoming + safe. Tech makes easier.

    Welcoming trick-or-treaters

    • Porch light on = welcome.
    • Light off = no candy.
    • Bowl on porch — leave self-serve.
    • Ring doorbell — see who's coming.
    • Sit on porch — most rewarding.
    • Costco / Target — bulk candy.

    Smart tech help

    • Ring Doorbell — see who's at door.
    • Smart bulbs — orange/purple Halloween lights.
    • Smart speakers — "Alexa, play spooky music."
    • Outdoor cameras — driveway visibility.
    • Motion lights — illuminate path.
    • Keep walkway clear + lit.

    Safety tips

    • Battery candles — no fire risk.
    • LED string lights — cheaper electricity.
    • Remove tripping hazards.
    • Don't leave decorations after.
    • Lock back gate — only front access.
    • Turn off porch light when done.

    Stay-home options

    • "Trunk or Treat" at church / school.
    • Senior center Halloween parties.
    • Skip if mobility-limited — no shame.
    • "Sorry, no candy" sign + light off.
    • Post on Nextdoor — kids skip.
    • Watch Halloween classics — Disney+.

    Connect with grandkids

    • FaceTime — see costumes!
    • Send Halloween cards.
    • Bake cookies, mail decorated.
    • Mail Halloween activity book.
    • Online costume contest.
    • Watch Charlie Brown together remotely.

    Avoid scams

    • Fake costume sites — only known retailers.
    • Suspicious "decoration deals" ads.
    • Unknown trick-or-treaters at non-Halloween hours.
    • Vandalism — call non-emergency police.
    • Photograph any property damage.
    • Don't open door at very late hours.

    Senior costume ideas

    No costume needed if not visited. Easy ones: pajamas + sleep mask = "just woke up". T-shirt with name = "costume". Witch hat + black clothes = classic. Football jersey = sports fan. Costco sells senior-comfort costumes. Amazon — endless options. Comfort > complexity.