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Families throughout Britain are being advised to illuminate outdoor lighting surrounding their homes on Friday for Halloween . Indeed, it's that period of the year once more when children (and grown-ups) don fancy dress costumes and venture door-to-door seeking sweets in honour of Halloween. The eerie occasion has surged in appeal across Britain in recent times and whilst it's fundamentally harmless entertainment, specialists suggest implementing minor steps to secure your residence on Halloween evening. Based on data from insurance firm Aviva, domestic burglary claims have risen by 23% during October and November over the past five years. Whilst vandalism claims have climbed by 21% in those same months, prompting households to exercise additional vigilance, especially during occasions such as 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," reports the Express . A straightforward method to shield your property from potential vandalism and burglary on Halloween is merely to activate any external lighting around your home. Security boffins at Yale have advised: "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." They also suggest keeping paths and doorways clear and visible to eliminate any potential hiding spots, and recommend using motion-activated security lights to scare off would-be intruders. DNA Security experts stated: "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." Moreover, some local police forces offer downloadable window posters for households that prefer not to entertain trick or treaters, helping to ward off any unwelcome guests. Arlo Technologies, a company specialising in security systems services, offered their two pennies' worth on securing your home during Halloween, saying: "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."
