Preventing Burglars: Are Lights Effective?

Our homes tend to hold what is most dear to us. Our families, pets, and memories are all treasured in our space. Protecting our residence is of utmost importance. Safety in the home and preventing burglars is a top concern for many homeowners. One standard method for deterring intruders is the use of lights. But are lights effective in preventing burglaries?

Evidence for benefits of lighting. 

Evidence suggests that lighting a home can be an effective deterrent for burglars. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that well-lit areas were less likely to be targeted by burglars. Additionally, the presence of lights can make a home or property feel more occupied, which may discourage burglars from attempting to break in. The United States Department of Justice also released

Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272494416300169

Types of security lighting.

When looking at security lighting, there is a variety of options. Homeowners can choose from continuous, moveable, emergency, and standby lighting.

·         Continuous lighting can provide a consistent level of visibility and effectively deter burglars. However, it can also be more expensive to operate due to the constant use of electricity.

·         Movable lighting: Movable lighting refers to lights that can be directed or focused on specific areas as needed. This type of lighting can be helpful for illuminating areas that may be less visible or more vulnerable to burglaries, such as dark corners or entry points. Movable lighting can also be more energy efficient, as it can be turned off or directed away from areas that do not need illumination.

·         Emergency lighting: Emergency lighting is designed to provide illumination in a power outage or other emergency. This type of lighting is typically battery-powered and can help provide visibility and security during an emergency.

·         Standby lighting: Standby lighting refers to lights that connect to a backup power source, such as a generator. This lighting can illuminate during a power outage or other emergency situations.

When deciding which type of security lighting to purchase, it is important to consider your home's location and budget. For example, consider emergency or standby lighting if you live in an area with frequent power outages. Movable lighting may be a good choice if you want a more energy-efficient option.

Lighting Placement matters.

However, the effectiveness of lighting as a deterrent can depend on several factors. For example, bright, consistent lighting is more likely to deter burglars than dim or sporadic lighting. To maximize their effectiveness, it is also essential to ensure that the lights are placed strategically, such as near doors and windows.

In addition to exterior lighting, it can be helpful to have interior lights on a timer or to use smart home technology to make it appear as though someone is home even when the house is empty. This can be especially useful when you are away on vacation or for long periods. Smart lighting is also useful for making a home appear occupied when expensive items are delivered to your door.

It is also worth noting that lighting is just one aspect of preventing burglaries. Other effective measures include:

·         Installing a security system.

·         Keeping doors and windows locked.

·         Trimming back shrubbery to reduce hiding spots for burglars.

 Lighting can be an effective deterrent for burglars, but it is just one aspect of preventing burglaries. By combining lighting with other measures, such as a security system and proper home security habits, homeowners can increase their protection against burglaries.

Protection beyond the burglary.

From time to time, prevention measures do not deter burglars. The intruders can breach into protected space, whether in desperation or disregard. Your protection strategy should include a homeowners insurance policy to help your family should a crisis occur. An insurance plan with a trusted provider can give homeowners the needed support to pick up the pieces after a robbery or intrusion.