Trick or Treat...Vandalism or Theft!?

Instead of simply listing safety tips for family and friends on this scary yet delightfully, delicious holiday weekend, shown below are maps displaying crimes have happened the past 2 years of Halloween.  Hopefully after checking out this kind of information, you will be able to better prepared yourself for any ghost, goblin, black cat or criminal that may cross your path!

SpotCrime has been collecting data from the Baltimore County Police Department for over 2 years now, so below are the 2009 and 2008 Towson (located in Baltimore County) Halloween crime maps.

Towson Halloween 2009 (Oct 30-Nov 1)

Towson Halloween 2008 (Oct 30-Nov 1)

Looks like thefts and vandalism hit the spot (who would've thought?)!  Vandalism is easily preventable, as well as theft.  This Halloween, be prepared.  Here are some tips to keep in mind while handing out, collecting and eating your candy: 

• Keep an eye out in your area for any suspicious activity, after all, criminals wear masks too!  
• Due to the high amount of 'trick or treater' traffic in your neighborhood, be especially aware of locking all doors to your house and cars.  There will be thieves out there who will be looking into your cars and windows, waiting to select an easy target.
• Darkness may be the most scary, but it's an open invitation for a criminal.  Keep your house and yard well lit.
• Make sure to set rules for your children
• Know where they will be heading and what time they will be back
• Explain to them the difference between a trick and vandalism
• Tell them to never go into a strangers house without letting you know first
• Look both ways before crossing the street, carry a flashlight
• Check collected candy before you eat any!
• Finally, sign up for your local crime alerts at SpotCrime or MyLocalCrime to learn of areas to just stay away from.

Have Fun, Stay Safe and BOO!