After a candy-filled evening of trick-or-treating and costume parties, many homeowners return to their homes on Halloween night to find that their property has been vandalized. According to Traveler’s Insurance, property crimes spike on Halloween. But don’t let that keep you from enjoying the night. We’ve come up with a step-by-step plan to help you protect your home from theft and damage on the spookiest day (and night) of the year.
Step 1: Be present
One of the best ways to ward off potential issues (whether it be teenagers with a few rolls of toilet paper or a more serious vandal) is to be present. One dead giveaway that you’re not at home? A basket of candy on the front porch. Sit on the porch to greet the trick-or-treaters instead, and you may avoid some of the most common Halloween night crimes, including vandalism and theft.
Step 2: Keep up appearances
Whether you’re planning to hand out candy or head to a friend’s haunted house party, a well-lit home can help discourage would-be offenders. An illuminated yard and pathway also make it safer for trick-or-treaters to come to your door after dark. Turn on all your outdoor lights and keep a few interior lights on as well.
If you have a security system in place, advertise it prominently with yard signage. The presence of cameras will let anyone who walks up to your house that the premises is being watched very closely. Display your cameras in a prominent and out-of-reach location. With a security system like Xfinity Home, you can even keep an eye on the footage from your mobile device, whether you’re walking around the neighborhood or all the way across town.
Step 3: Secure any valuables
If you’re wondering how to prevent vandalism, it may be as easy as removing the temptation. No one can egg your car if it’s stored safely in the garage. It’s always a good idea to secure bicycles, lawn furniture, and other expensive items overnight, but it’s especially important on a night known for mischievous activity. If you can’t bring your items inside, move them so that they’re not visible from the street.
Step 4: Add a professional layer of security
A smart home security system is an investment in your family’s safety all year long, but you’ll be especially thankful for it on a rowdy holiday evening. It’s an ideal way to keep tabs on activity on your property.
With video surveillance options like video monitoring and available 24/7 recording*, you can keep an eye on your home’s entrances and yard, even when you’re away from home. Placing a camera on your front porch augmented by automated lights can provide extra peace of mind over Halloween (or any other night).
Xfinity Home also offers 24-hour professional monitoring, so authorities can be notified if alarms are triggered.
As you unpack the pumpkin decorations and the costume box, take these simple steps to prevent vandalism and have a safer Halloween. With a security plan in place, it will be even easier to relax. So this year, leave the spookiness to your costume.
*Whole-home 24/7 recording for up to 6 cameras available for $10/mo
