15 Ways to Keep Your House Safe During Halloween

When it comes to home safety, especially during Halloween, it's important to take precautions to protect your loved ones and belongings. During this holiday, it's also important to ensure that your home is a safe and welcoming environment for guests. As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, there are some things you need to have in and around your home to create a safe space for those who live in the house, as well as kids and families trick-or-treating! Here are 15 expert tips to keep your house safe during the spooky season.
1. Install a Security System
Ensure that your home security system is activated and working properly to make sure kids are respectful of your lawn and home when they come for trick-or-treating. This also allows everyone to have a safer experience while trick-or-treating! Motion sensor lights and cameras can deter any unwanted visitors or those looking to get into mischief. Having a camera and motion detectors year round will help prevent theft and break-ins by an exponentially high margin. Did you know that studies show that homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be broken into? Invest in a reliable security system to deter burglars and keep your home safe. Frontpoint's home security system is a great way to make sure your house is secure.
2. Secure Your Doors and Windows
Make sure all entry points are secure by installing sturdy locks, window alarms on doors and windows. Consider adding the Frontpoint Smart Door Lock for extra protection. No need to worry about losing your keys or panicking wondering if you locked the door when running in and out of the house!
3. Keep Your Yard Well-Lit
Darkness provides cover for intruders and can be hazardous for guests. Install outdoor lighting around your property to illuminate dark areas and deter potential burglars.
4. Well-lit Pathways
Make sure not just the yard is well-lit but that all pathways leading to your front door are well-lit to prevent any trips or falls. Little ones will be excited running around in costumes, the last thing they want is a fall on such a fun night! Consider using solar-powered lights or string lights to illuminate the way.
5. Trim Overgrown Bushes and Trees
Overgrown vegetation can provide hiding spots for intruders. Keep your bushes and trees trimmed to eliminate potential hiding spots near your home. This also allows guests to clearly see the beauty of your yard, the entryway and prevents burglars.
6. Don't Advertise Your Absence
Avoid posting on social media about being away from home on Halloween night. Instead, wait until you return to share your photos. When leaving candy out, do not leave a note on the bowl indicating that you are not home. This can alert burglars that your house is empty.
7. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Having a good relationship with your neighbors can help keep your home safe. Making sure to introduce yourself and connect with community is the first line of protection when you are away from home. They can keep an eye on your property and alert you to any suspicious activity.
8. Use Timers for Lights
Make it look like someone is home by using timers for lights, TVs, and radios. This can give the impression that your house is occupied, even when it's not. Having smart light bulbs is a great way to do this.
9. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Avoid leaving valuable items, such as electronics or jewelry, in plain sight. Don't place your iPad, wallet and watch on the table that is right next to the large window. This is an easy target for someone to open the window and snatch up everything! Store them in a safe or hidden location to reduce the risk of theft.
10. Create an Emergency Plan
Prepare for emergencies by creating a family emergency plan. Especially with small children, communicating what to do in an emergency, where to wait safely and how to get back home if lost is important. Include escape routes, meeting points, and important contact information in case of a fire, break-in or if someone gets lost and cannot contact other family members.
11. Stay Vigilant
Stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. During Halloween, police increase patrols in residential areas to increase the safety of trick-or-treaters and deter property crimes like theft and vandalism. Some cities report a notable spike in crime on this night. Trust your instincts and take action if something doesn't feel right. Your safety is worth the extra vigilance.
12. Clear Obstacles
Remove any obstacles or decorations that could obstruct the path to your front door. Keep decorations like pumpkins and corn stalks away from walkways to prevent tripping hazards. Although they may look cute, little kids can easily miss their footing when coming up to a door, especially if there are steps.
13. Pet Safety
Keep your pets secure and away from the front door. This can help prevent them from escaping, attacking trick-or-treaters or getting scared by the constant doorbell ringing and commotion. Dogs at the front door are hyper-attuned to new people, noises, scents and wanting to protect their territory. This noisy night can even make the most calm dogs or cats a little stressed.
14. Fire Safety
If you're using candles in your decorations, make sure they are placed in sturdy holders and away from flammable materials. You should keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything in your home. The U.S. Fire Department estimates that there is an average of almost 6,000 home structure fires started by candles each year. Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
15. Emergency Preparedness
Have a first aid kit handy in case of any minor injuries. Every home should have a first-aid kit with bandaids, gauze, disinfectant and wound cream. Make sure all smoke alarms are working and have a fire extinguisher easily accessible.
By following these expert tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for everyone in your home and neighborhood. Happy Halloween!
Frontpoint keeps homes safe whether families are there or not. To shop DIY home security systems, check out our products page. If you have questions or would like to discuss a quote, contact us at 855-866-4409.