Check out this list of essential Halloween home safety tips as prepared by the Chicago residential locksmith service and Chicago security hardware installation team here at Chicago Locksmiths.
Lighting Safety
Dark front yards and walkways might provide a Halloween-like atmosphere, but can actually pose a danger. Make sure that obstructions like bikes or other tripping hazards like decorations, as well as plants or wet leaves are fully visible and not in high-traffic areas. Dark yards also invite pranksters or, worse, burglars to steal from your home. By keeping your property well-lit, you deter criminals from feeling safe to attempt break-ins. On Halloween, it’s common for thieves to try to take advantage of the distraction of hgh traffic to break into garages. Keep your car doors locked and your garages closed and locked.
Appearing Home
If you’re not going to be home on Halloween night, either while taking children trick or treating or if you’re at a party – or on vacation – you want to make sure that your home is secure. Criminals will be looking for signs of unattended homes. Halloween is considered a special vulnerable time for homeowners. Don’t turn off indoor or outdoor lights. Don’t leave a large bowl of candy that says “take only one piece” as this is a great indicator that your home is an easy target. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your house. Make sure that your front door, shed door, side doors, and garage door are locked and secured. We recommend putting lights inside your home on timers – or televisions – to create the impression that somebody is home even if they aren’t.
Keeping Doors Locked
It’s estimated that nearly 34 percent of burglars come into homes through unlocked front doors or windows. On Halloween, like every other day, make sure that all doors and windows are fully locked when not in use.
Security System Checking
Make sure that you fully check all home security and safety systems including motion sensors, fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and all other security or health systems. Replace batteries if you need to. If you have an alarm system that automatically calls a security provider or the authorities, make sure the call functionality is working.
