Households across the UK are being urged to switch on outdoor lights around their property on Friday for Halloween.
Yes, it’s that time of the year again when kids (and adults) dress up in scary outfits and go knocking on doors for treats in celebration of Halloween. The spooky day has grown in popularity in the UK in recent years and while it is ultimately a bit of fun, experts recommend taking small measures to keep your home safe on Halloween night. According to insurance company Aviva, home theft claims have increased by 23% in October and November in the last five years, while malicious damage claims have increased by 21% in the same months, so households are urged to take extra precautions, particularly around events like Halloween.
Waseem Malik, Aviva Chief Claims Officer, said: “Halloween provides something of a perfect storm for would-be troublemakers – which could mean an increase in certain types of claim.
“As well as the trick-or-treat antics of October 31st, the clocks go back on the last Saturday of the month. This means night will fall an hour earlier around Halloween, which creates an opportunity for people to go about their business under the cover of darkness.”
An easy way to protect your home from potential damage and theft on Halloween is simply to switch on any exterior lights around your property.
Security experts at Yale said: “One of the easiest, most effective ways of ensuring your property is not a target for burglaries is by ensuring your home and outside spaces are well-lit.”
Households are also advised to keep paths and doorways clear and visible to avoid any hiding spots, and to consider using motion-activated security lights to deter potential intruders.
Experts at DNA Security added: “Motion sensor lighting is a highly effective deterrent for thieves. Having lights which activate when motion is detected won’t just alert you of a presence on your premises after the evening spell of trick-or-treating, but it can also help to prevent devious behaviour from commencing.
“Placing these lights outside any entrance points to your home, including the outside of a garage or down the side path, will allow you to remain aware of any movement around your home.
Additionally, some local police forces provide downloadable window posters for households that don’t want to welcome trick or treaters, which can help to prevent any unwanted visitors.
In its advice on securing your home on Halloween, experts at security systems services company Arlo Technologies said: “One of the simplest yet most effective ways to secure your home is through adequate outdoor lighting.
“Well-lit properties deter unwanted visitors and vandals. Consider using motion-activated security lights around the perimeter of your property.
“These lights will startle potential intruders and be a welcome help to the visitors you are expecting. They will also alert you to the presence of people on your property.”