Irish households given last minute warning over 'keeping lights on for trick-or-treaters'

With Halloween approaching, homeowners will need to be on the lookout for more than just trick-or-treaters. Research shows a significant 17% increase in crime-related insurance claims during this festive period, with 60% of property crimes on Halloween involving theft.

That’s why real estate experts at SoCal Home Buyers are urging residents to be vigilant. They point out that the excitement of the season can create security risks and make homes easy targets for burglars.

The primary concern, according to SoCal, is a common but often overlooked mistake made by many homeowners during Halloween: leaving indoor lights on for extended periods after trick-or-treating hours have ended.

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Doug Van Soest, Owner of SoCal Home Buyers, commented: "A lot of homeowners believe keeping their lights on throughout the night deters burglars, giving the illusion that residents are present, whether they’re at home or not. However, this common practice can actually backfire, especially during Halloween. Experienced burglars scout neighborhoods, looking for homes with lights constantly on late into the night. They know this is a tactic homeowners use when away, inadvertently signaling an unoccupied house.

“On Halloween, this risk is amplified. While many homes keep their exterior dark for a spooky atmosphere, interior lights left on after trick-or-treating hours stand out even more. This makes it easier for intruders to see whether anyone is moving inside, or if the home is empty.

“We recommend being strategic with your lighting, particularly on Halloween night. Both during trick-or-treating and after it ends, consider turning off most lights or using timers to create a more natural pattern. This approach is far more effective in deterring potential break-ins than leaving lights on continuously. Remember, the goal is to make your home appear lived-in and active, not just illuminated."

Common Halloween Security Mistakes to Avoid

In addition to lighting concerns, Van Soest highlights other common Halloween-related mistakes that can attract burglars:

1. Spooky sound effects leaving windows vulnerable: While cracking windows open for atmospheric sound effects adds to the Halloween spirit, it also provides an easy entry point for intruders. Instead, consider using outdoor speakers for your spooky sounds.
2. Tempting window displays : Showcasing expensive electronics or valuables in Halloween window displays is like advertising to burglars. Keep valuable items out of sight, even during festive decorating.
3. Unsecured outdoor decorations: Large inflatable decorations or expensive outdoor displays can be tempting for thieves. Secure these items properly or bring them indoors when not in use.
4. Neglecting outdoor lighting: Dark areas around your home provide cover for burglars. Install motion-sensor lights to illuminate potential hiding spots.
5. Oversharing on social media: Posting real-time updates about your Halloween plans or vacations can alert burglars to your whereabouts. Wait until you're at home to share your adventures online.

Van Soest emphasizes that “Homeowners should conduct a thorough security assessment before the Halloween rush. Consider upgrading to smart home security systems that allow remote monitoring and control, as these systems can provide peace of mind while you're out trick-or-treating or attending Halloween events."

The message from these experts is clear: don't let the excitement of Halloween overshadow the importance of home security.