Halloween is the worst day of the year for malicious damage to the home …
… and Bonfire Night is the worst day for home burglaries.
According to Aviva claims data, when the clocks go back home insurance claims shoot up. Halloween, 31 October, is the worst day of the year for malicious damage to the home with claims soaring by 160%. It is also one of the worst days for car thefts, up by 28%.
Bonfire Night, 5 Nov, is also one of the worst days for malicious damage to the home, with 56% more claims. It is also the worst day for home burglary – 21% higher than the rest of the year. Unsurprisingly, it is also one of the worst days for fire claims with 56% more than on an average day.
Two-thirds of policy holders don’t believe darker nights put them at greater risk of burglary. However, Simon Warsop, home and pet insurance expert at Aviva said: “Burglars are more likely to break into homes under the cover of darkness so don’t make it easy for them. Now is the time to install outside security lighting and double-check windows and doors.”
Aviva has issued some useful tips to deter burglars:
- If you are hosting a Halloween or bonfire night party in your back garden make sure the front windows and doors are locked.
- Leave a radio and lights on to give the impression that people are at home.
- Use a timer switch to turn lights on as it gets dark.
- Avoid telling strangers who know your address, such as delivery men, that your house is likely to be empty.
- Put your car and bikes in your garage or out of the way for the night and don’t leave your keys in an obvious place.
- Move garden ornaments and potted plants from the front of your house and out of sight.
- Make sure sheds, garages and outbuildings have robust locks.
One further tip from Asprey Harris:
Don’t think that burglars stay at home in wet and windy weather. In fact, they are far more likely to be out and about as the conditions are ideal for them. Any noise they make is sure to be blamed on the weather. Keep your eyes and ears open.
