Considerations For Halloween and Bonfire Night: Protecting Your Home and Property

Small carved pumpkins in the foreground. Children in the background playing with sparklers
Emily Young

Written by

Emily Young

Content & Digital Marketing Executive

David Joyson

Reviewed by

David Joyson

Home Insurance Expert & Customer Champion

Less than 1 minute

Updated: 29 Oct 2024

As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, the UK is getting ready for two of the biggest Autumnal nights of the year – Halloween and Bonfire Night. Both are full of festivities, from trick-or-treating to fireworks displays, but they also come with their own set of risks. We want to ensure that your celebrations remain safe and fun, without you having to worry about potential accidents or damage

Here are some key things to consider to keep your home protected during these events: 

Halloween tricks 

For most people, Halloween is lighthearted fun, but sometimes the “trick” can overshadow the “treat.” Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for homes to fall victim to acts of vandalism (also known as “malicious damage”) such as graffiti or egging. 

Whether you’ll be doing the Monster Mash at your home or somewhere else, make sure your property is secure. Our 3 tips below will allow you to focus on celebrating Halloween (or not) in whatever way you choose. 

Securing your property 

Double-check you’ve locked your gates, garages and sheds. If you have any valuables or breakables outside, even fragile garden ornaments, it may be best to bring them inside for the night if you’re concerned. While inflatable decorations and carved pumpkins are sure to help your home look the part, be mindful of where these items are placed – they could be damaged, or even become fire hazards. 

Outdoor lighting 

Motion sensor lights or leaving your porch light on can deter possible vandals. Well-lit areas outside houses (and a pumpkin) make genuine trick-or-treaters feel much safer approaching your home. 

Insurance coverage 

While it’s not something you want to think about, it’s better to be prepared for acts of vandalism. Having the right level of cover – and knowing what you’re covered for – should give you peace of mind. 

Firework safety 

Bonfire Night is a celebration full of warmth and light, but it’s essential to remember that fireworks and sparklers can all pose serious fire risks which could damage your property and even surrounding ones. 

Keep fireworks away from your property 

If you’re setting off fireworks at home, make sure they’re lit at a safe distance from your home, sheds, fences, and any flammable materials (e.g. trees, garden furniture). Even accidental fires can spread quickly.  

Be prepared for fires 

If a fire should start, have the appropriate tools nearby. This includes water, sand, or a fire extinguisher, which should be always kept to hand.  

Regulations 

The fireworks you buy should all be quality marked with either UKCA or CE. If they are not, then they are not authorised in the UK. When using fireworks, follow all appropriate safety guidelines laid out by your local authority, and use common sense. If in doubt, attending an organised display may be safer for both you and your property. 

Protecting guests on your property 

Whether you’re hosting for Halloween or Bonfire Night, slips, trips, and burns are all potential hazards.  

Clear pathways 

Walkways in and around your home should be clear of obstacles that could become trip hazards, like fallen leaves and decorations. The combination of darkness and the potential for wet weather can make navigation a little trickier, so additional lighting may be required in outside areas. 

Supervision for children 

If you’re having fireworks on your property, closely supervise your guests, especially children. Sparklers seem harmless but even they can cause serious burns if not handled with care. Set out designated spaces – one for lighting fireworks, one for using sparklers, and ones where neither are permitted (where pets and children should remain at all times). Remember – many children’s fancy dress costumes contain a lot of polyester, which can be highly flammable.  

Liability coverage 

Double-check your liability insurance coverage. If someone is injured on your property, having sufficient coverage protects you from potentially high medical or legal fees. 

Homeprotect policies include public liability cover as standard. You can claim up to £5m per policy year to pay damages for your legal liability in the event of accidental death of, or bodily injury to, a guest or member of the public (subject to Terms and Conditions – please see your policy for details). 

Further details of both our liability cover can be found in our Policy Booklet

Other tips: 

  • Don’t keep fireworks in your pocket  
  • Don’t go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off  

Pet safety 

As mentioned above, pets and fireworks rarely mix well, but Halloween can also be stressful for them, with loud noises, strangers coming to the door, and out-of-the-ordinary activities taking place. 

Secure your pets indoors 

Loud noises and unfamiliar visitors can spook pets, causing them to run off and may increase the risk of them injuring themselves. There may also be a higher risk of “pet damage”, which may not be covered by your insurance policy. Keeping pets indoors in a quiet space that’s away from the commotion caused by these two events is the best way to ensure their safety. If you’re hosting a gathering at home, make sure guests know which doors to keep closed so your pets don’t escape. 

Firework fright 

If your pets are particularly fearful when it comes to loud noises, there are a variety of calming products available that can be bought in store, which can be recommended by your vet. If you are concerned, you can also speak to them about other ways you can reduce their anxiety. 

Decorations – electrical and fire hazards 

While elaborate displays are fantastic to watch, be cautious not to overload electrical sockets with too many lights and decorations. This can increase the risk of electrical fires, as can using any items with frayed or damaged wires. Only use lights that are rated for outdoor use if you’re decorating the exterior of your home. 

Even real candles are a fire risk, especially if they are in places where they can be knocked over by people, pets or the wind. Battery-powered LED candles are a great alternative to maintain the spooky atmosphere, but in a safer way. 

Enjoy the festivities with peace of mind 

With precautions put in place, you can enjoy the excitement of Halloween and Bonfire Night without worrying about the risks to your home, guests or pets. Review your home insurance policy to ensure that you’re adequately covered for fire, vandalism and liability. 

Stay safe and have a fantastic Halloween and Bonfire Night!