Are you planning your first haunted house this year? These events are thrilling and give an exciting opportunity to scare and be scared. They are also a way to express your creativity and give a sense of community!
Haunted houses are a fun way to celebrate the Halloween season. If this is your first time hosting one, there are safety factors to consider. These include tailoring activities to every age group, using warning signs, and avoiding jump scares.
Hosting a haunted house comes with risks that can affect you and your guests. Does your insurance plan have the coverage you need should an emergency occur? If you want to change plans or add coverage, always research which companies have the highest rated reviews, Freeway Insurance Reviews have high ratings from many staisfied customers. Take a look at their website or call them to learn more.
Here’s how to make this holiday tradition safe for you and your neighbors.
Design Age-Appropriate Content
Be mindful of the audience that is attending your event. Create options and activities that are tailored to children and others for adults.
Keep themes spooky but not scary for kids. Choose cartoon characters or friendly monsters that are playful and silly. Use bright lighting to provide anticipation for what is ahead. Include sensory activities like touch and feel stations. This allows kids to experience the textures of objects related to the theme. Use plastic spiders, jello, and slime for a feel-good time.
Use a few scary elements for adults, like creepy clowns or eerie music. However, keep pathways clear and free of obstacles and tripping hazards for fire safety. In addition, create and mark emergency exists. Keep lighting bright on the floor and near doorways. Part of the fun is being in the dark, but be sure that everyone can see and exit safely.
Use Warning Signage
Ample warning signage is essential for each activity. These signs are a precautionary measure to communicate safety information. Include them outside all doors and in hallways so guests see them as they move to their next activity.
The purpose of these signs is to warn people about potential risks and hazards ahead. For example, include details about strobe lights, potential food allergens, or other health considerations.
Include directions on each sign about how to exit each area. This gives people the ability to enjoy themselves and leave when their comfort level has been reached (something adults love to do as well, and joke about not doing enough).
Avoid Jump Scares
Do not include attractions with monsters or creatures that are meant to “pop out of nowhere” with jump scares. These are a double-edged sword for several reasons.
These types of acts present risks for anxiety, extreme fear, discomfort, or triggering a health issue. Play it safe and choose alternatives that are creative and interactive. For example, use lots of decorations that relate to your theme or develop a storyline for visitors to navigate as they move throughout your home!
Keep Your Guests Safe at Your Haunted House
Haunted houses are a great way to express your creativity and be a part of a neighborhood tradition. There are safety aspects to keep in mind as you plan your event. Create age-appropriate content, use plenty of cautionary signage, and plan activities that encourage creativity and interaction. These tips are sure to help you create an event that gives folks “pumpkin” to talk about!
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