How do I get my house ready for trick-or-treaters tonight?

It's Halloween, and the doorbell will start ringing around dusk. A few minutes this afternoon makes your house a safe stop for kids and an easy night for you.

Light the way

• Turn on the porch light and any path or driveway lights. It's dark before 5.
• Replace any dead bulbs while it's still light out.
• A porch light on is the signal that you're handing out candy. Turn it off when you're done.

Clear the path

• Sweep wet leaves off the steps and walkway. Wet leaves are as slippery as ice.
• Move hoses, tools, bikes and decorations with cords out of the way.
• Make sure the railing is solid.

Pumpkins and decorations

• Use battery candles or LED lights in jack-o'-lanterns, especially on the steps, where costumes brush past.
• Keep real candles and anything hot away from the walkway.
• Outdoor decorations should plug into an outdoor-rated outlet with cords that don't cross the path.

At the door

• Keep dogs and cats in another room. The doorbell and costumes stress them out, and an open door is an easy escape.
• Have the bowl ready by the door so you're not leaving it open.
• A few non-candy treats, like stickers, are nice for kids with allergies.

After the night

• Bring pumpkins inside or toss them before they freeze and turn to mush on the steps.
• Take down anything that can blow away in the next storm.

What's your experience?

How many trick-or-treaters do you usually get? Share it in the comments.