Copyright dailyrecord
Darker nights are here with the changing of the clocks and householders are being told to turn on their outdoor lights on Friday, October 31. It's Halloween and homes up and down the country will be visited by kids out guising. And while it's all for fun as they gather their sweets, experts say that it is a good idea to take some small steps to keep your property secure on the spooky night. Insurance company Aviva said that home theft claims have risen by 23 per cent in October and November in the last five years. Malicious damage claims have increased by 21 per cent in the same months, so households are being 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 went 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.” There is an easy way to protect your house from any potential damage or theft on Halloween and on darker nights, reports The Express . Simply switch on any exterior lights around your property. It is a deterrent to those wanting to cause damage. 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." It is 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 said: "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. 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.”
