6 mistakes making your Halloween spectacle a magnet for burglars – and what to do instead

With Halloween fast approaching, you might be thinking about decorating your porch with pumpkins, skeletons, and spiders for the spooky season.

While this is a fun way to add a festive flair to your home, experts warn that, while scary spectacles bring trick-or-treaters, they may also be attracting burglars and putting your property at risk.

With crime rates spiking over the holidays, here are the six habits to rethink ahead of Halloween.

6 mistakes making your Halloween spectacle a magnet for burglars

According to research conducted by Attorneys Hartman, 60% of property crimes on Halloween involve theft, with an average of 17% more crime-related claims made.

That's why real estate agents at SoCal Home Buyers are warning homeowners to be wary over Halloween, staying vigilant of security risks that may be making your home an easy target for burglars.

1. Leaving your outside light on

Should I leave my porch light on all night? '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,' says Doug Van Soest, real estate expert and owner of SoCal Home Buyers. 'However, this common practice can actually backfire, especially during Halloween.'

This is because experienced burglars will scout neighborhoods, looking specifically for homes that have lights on either constantly or late into the night, knowing that it is a tactic that homeowners use when away. Therefore, this habit could inadvertently be signaling an unoccupied house.

'On Halloween, this risk is amplified,' warns Van Soest. '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.'

Instead, Van Soest recommends being strategic with lighting on Halloween night, both during trick-or-treating hours and after it ends. Turn off most lights using timers, or create a more natural pattern, with practical front porch lighting ideas.

'Remember, the goal is to make your home appear lived-in and active, not just illuminated,' says Van Soest.

2. Leaving windows open for spooky sound effects

While spooky sound effects drifting out from an open window may make your house feel spectacularly spooky, they could leave your home vulnerable to burglars.

'Cracking windows open for atmospheric sound effects adds to the Halloween spirit, but it also provides an easy entry point for intruders,' says Van Soest. 'Instead, consider using outdoor speakers for your spooky sounds,' such as the Monster Rockin’ Roller 270 Indoor/Outdoor Portable Bluetooth Speaker available at Amazon. Always remember to turn off and unplug any speakers at night, after trick-or-treating hours are over.

This risk is also the same when opening windows in winter to reduce condensation, particularly at night, so use window locks, such as the number one bestselling Prime-Line U 9819 Aluminum Sliding Window Security Lock available at Amazon, which facilitates windows locking at a ventilating position.

3. Showcasing electronic devices

Experts reveal the best security measures to have at home are, and keeping expensive electronics in your windows which may attract burglars is one Van Soest recommends.

He says, 'Showcasing expensive electronics or valuables in Halloween window displays is like advertising to burglars. Keep valuable items out of sight, even during festive decorating,' which is a home security tip to keep in mind all year.

4. Neglecting outdoor lighting

While you shouldn't leave your porch lights on longer than necessary, you shouldn't neglect them, either.

'Dark areas around your home provide cover for burglars,' says Van Soest. 'Install motion-sensor lights to illuminate potential hiding spots.'

When installing these, our dedicated guide to the best places for security lights, which features advice from a former FBI agent, is a handy place to start, particularly if you're wondering if security lights can stay on all night.

5. Unsecured outdoor decorations

'Large inflatable decorations or expensive outdoor displays can be tempting for thieves,' warns Van Soest. 'Secure these items properly, or bring them indoors when not in use,' to keep your Halloween decorating ideas and Halloween porch decor safe from burglars.

6. Oversharing on social media

Finally, Van Soest warns against oversharing your outdoor Halloween decor, best front porch Halloween decorations, or plans on social media. He says, '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.'

FAQs

How do you make your house less attractive to burglars?

To prevent burglary and burglar-proof a front door, ensure doors are locked at night with double-key deadbolts, and install one of the best home security systems.

You may also want to landscape strategically, to make it difficult for thieves to approach your home, and use high fencing.

What deters burglars?

While studies have shown that a visible security system is the most effective way to deter burglars, having a dog is an effective way to secure your home without a security system.

If you don't have one, consider using signage, such as 'beware of the dog' plaques, to indicate that you do.

'Homeowners should conduct a thorough security assessment before the Halloween rush,' suggests Van Soest. '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.'

Wondering when Halloween decorations can go up? While we believe it's (almost) never too early, if they haven't already, keep an eye on when your neighbors put theirs out, and watch for the weather.