Spooky decorations are placed in front of a home in Sierra Madre, California on October 29, 2017, along a street for Halloween on October 31, 2017. Over 179 million Americans are planning to participate in Halloween celebrations this year, up from 8 million last year.
Halloween thefts are worsening in numerous U.S. cities. This is something Americans should worry about since Halloween is just around the corner.
If you are planning to leave your house during the Halloween month, here's what you need to know, such as tips on how to protect your belongings from Halloween tricksters.
Halloween Thefts in US Cities are Increasing
Halloween-related thefts can ruin your holiday. Just imagine making all the efforts to decorate your front porch and inside of your house only for criminals to steal them.
What's worse is that they could break inside your beloved home and steal other more valuable belongings, such as laptops, smartphones, money, etc.
Signal Tribune reported that this is what some U.S. cities, including Chicago, Pittsburgh, Columbia City, and Sacramento, have experienced for the past few years every Halloween season.
Studies and surveys revealed that between 2011 and 2021, Halloween-related crimes increased by over 50%. Complaints claimed that thieves and other criminals stole their belongings and did other illegal things on and around the holiday.
In 2023, numerous thefts are already happening. These include the thieves stealing Halloween decorations in Pittsburgh.
According to NBC Bay Area's latest report, police officials are still searching for the man who was seen stealing Halloween props and other decorations displayed outside residential porches in Pittsburgh.
"Please don't take the stuff. Everyone works so hard to put Halloween stuff out. You just ruin it for everybody," said one of the residents, Christina McNamar.
Read Also: No Trick or Treat? Global Sugar Shortage Could Affect Halloween Celebration-Even in US
How To Stop Halloween Thieves
An installation of 3,000 candle-lit pumpkins blanket the canal side steps at Granary Square on October 31, 2014 in London, England. The pumpkins, created by members of youth development group Global Generation and other carvers, will be on display and illuminated from dusk until Saturday November 1, 2014.
Since Halloween-related crimes are not something that Americans should disregard, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) decided to share some helpful tips.
The law enforcement department's suggestions are not only for Californian residents living in Long Beach city but also for Americans living in other U.S. cities.
- Before leaving your house, ensure you have cameras facing decorations. You can also put up signage to tell other people that your place has surveillance cameras to discourage them from robbing you.
- If you have the budget, you can also install motion-sensitive floodlights or porch lights. These could startle criminals and scare them before they can even rob your house.
- If you are short on budget, the best thing you can do is place your Halloween decorations in hard-to-reach areas or secure them to solid objects.
- If you have a good relationship with your neighbors, you can establish a watch or electronic community chat to share information regarding any suspicious activities.
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