As a haunt owner, your passion lies in crafting the most bone-chilling, heart-pounding haunt experience imaginable. From jump scares that make even the bravest souls scream in terror to scare actors wielding chainsaws in corn fields. However, amidst the chaos, it is crucial to remember that safety should always remain a top priority. Follow this detailed haunted house safety checklist to ensure your guests remain safe as they run for their lives.
Design and Layout
- Conduct a thorough assessment of your haunted house’s design and layout, making sure it meets all safety regulations and codes.
- Create clear, unobstructed paths for guests to navigate throughout the haunt, avoiding potential tripping hazards.
- Incorporate emergency exits and clearly mark them with illuminated signs that are easily visible in low-light conditions.
- Install fire-resistant materials wherever possible to minimize the risk of fire hazards.
- Check your local zoning ordinances, and make sure you have all the proper paperwork and permits needed to begin construction. Your local small business association or chamber of commerce can be a great resource if you’re not sure where to start.
Lighting
- Maintain appropriate lighting levels so guests can see where they are going without compromising the ambiance.
- Regularly inspect and replace malfunctioning or dim lights to prevent potential accidents.
- Consider incorporating emergency backup lighting systems in case of power outages.
Props and Decorations
- Securely anchor all props and decorations to prevent accidental tipping or falling on guests.
- Avoid using sharp or potentially harmful objects as part of your decor, especially when guests are allowed to touch certain items.
- Regularly inspect props for any wear and tear, replacing or repairing them as needed.
Looking for some easy DIY props you can make on a budget? Check out our list of 14 DIY Haunted House Props You Can Make On a Budget.
Electrical Safety
- Consult with a licensed electrician to inspect and maintain all electrical systems within your haunted house.
- Avoid overloading electrical circuits by distributing power usage evenly throughout the haunt.
- Use high-quality extension cords and ensure they are properly secured and protected against tripping hazards.
Fire Safety
- Install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers throughout your haunted house, making sure they are easily accessible and regularly checked.
- Develop and practice a comprehensive fire evacuation plan, including designated meeting points outside your haunt.
- Train all staff members on fire safety protocols and ensure they are familiar with the location of fire exits and firefighting equipment.
Actor Safety
- Provide actors with proper training on scare techniques, emergency procedures, and guest interaction guidelines.
- Establish a system for actors to communicate with each other and haunt management in case of emergencies.
- Regularly monitor actor performances to ensure they do not engage in any unsafe behavior that could harm guests or themselves.
Crowd Management
- Establish a maximum occupancy limit for your haunted house, considering both safety regulations and the comfort of guests.
- Implement a queue management system to prevent overcrowding and maintain a smooth flow of guests throughout the haunt.
- Train staff members on crowd control techniques to avoid panic situations and maintain order in case of emergencies.
One of the best ways to manage the crowd at your haunt is through the use of virtual queues. This feature allows guests to spend time at your midway games or shopping in your gift shop while waiting for a text that it’s their turn. By removing the need for long lines, you can prevent overcrowding, earn more revenue, and possibly cure some boredom.
Schedule a virtual demo with our team today to learn more about HauntPay’s virtual queue feature and how we can take your haunted house ticketing to the next level.
Sanitation and Hygiene
- Regularly clean and disinfect all areas within your haunted house, paying special attention to high-touch surfaces.
- Provide hand sanitizer stations at various points throughout your haunt and encourage guests to use them.
- Develop protocols for the safe handling and disposal of any potentially hazardous substances used within your haunt.
By following this comprehensive haunted house checklist, you can prioritize the well-being of your guests while delivering a truly terrifying experience. Remember, haunt safety is a crucial part of your planning and operations to ensure that everyone can enjoy the scares without any unnecessary risks.
