Guarding your home against a spike in Halloween break-ins

Halloween not only brings out the trick-or-treaters, but also more criminals!

On average, CPI Security said they see a 21 percent increase in break-ins during the month of October.

Skeletons, witches and tombstones in front yards meant to give trick-or-treaters nightmares, can be a dream for thieves. Those elaborate displays can give thieves cover as they try to break into your home.

"So, when you’re putting up Halloween decorations, think about areas that you don’t want a burglar to be able to hide," says Kristi O’Connor with CPI Security.

Some other common sense precautions can also be the most effective, like leaving on lights or a TV while you’re out trick-or-treating and double-checking that all doors and windows are locked.

"This is the easiest one that people can do. And yet, it’s one that everybody forgets," O’Connor said.

Don’t give burglars an easy way in. Take garage door openers out of cars parked outside and bring hidden spare keys inside.

"Your hiding spots aren’t as sneaky as you think they are," warned O’Connor.