Can you believe September is nearly over already? This week, fall will be officially underway which brings about its own share of tasks for Chicago’s North Shore homeowners— raking leaves, cleaning out the fireplace, updating decor, and now, preparing for Halloween.
You might not have anticipated getting ready for trick or treaters just yet, but there are a few ways you can make sure the path to your door is as safe as possible.
Clear the way
Just as you would do to prepare for potential North Shore homebuyers, you need to ensure the pathways are unobstructed. While it’s still daylight, inspect your lawn, driveway and other pathways for anything that could prove an obstacle. That means tree roots, fallen branches, or even cracks in the pavement. Make updates and repairs where you can or at the very least, block off these areas.
It’s also important to make sure your Halloween decor is not in the way. Things like extension cords or small pumpkins can cause trick or treaters to trip.
Light the way
While you don’t need to install extra lighting along the pathways of your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, Lake Forest, Wilmette, Evanston, Glenview, Riverwoods, Bannockburn, and the surrounding North Shore communities, there are other ways to light the way. You can use your pumpkins, glow sticks, luminaries or tea lights to help Halloween visitors find your door. And unless you’re attempting to avoid the candy-giving ritual, it’s always safer to keep the porch light on.
Be fire conscious
I know I mentioned how important it is to light the way to your door, but it’s also a must to keep paper and other decorations away from any flames. Halloween tends to bring candle lit decor to the forefront and while it does help your North Shore property look the part, you can achieve the same look with LED tea lights. Not an option for you? Take extra precautions to keep corn stalks, hay and paper out of the fire.
Calm your dog
If you’re a dog lover, chances are you’ll be getting your pets in the Halloween spirit too. However, your dog might not love all of the costumes and visitors to your home that night. It’s not only safe for your dog, but for the trick or treaters if you keep your pets in a calming, indoor space away from the front door.
I’m happy to provide tips for keeping your homes in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, Lake Forest, Wilmette, Evanston, Glenview, Riverwoods, Bannockburn, and the surrounding North Shore communities as safe as possible. If you have any questions about the local real estate market, do not hesitate to reach out!
Janie Bress
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