Does Outdoor Lighting Deter Crime?

There is a common misconception that outdoor lighting deters crime. While it does provide security, it doesn’t necessarily protect you from criminals. Criminals will still scurry away from bright light and hide in the dark to avoid detection. While this may be true for cockroaches, criminals aren’t dressed in ripped shirts and masks. And while lighting the street can make it seem more secure, it doesn’t prevent criminals from casing neighborhoods.

There’s no denying that outdoor lighting can deter criminals, but scientific studies have yet to prove it. While some experts believe that outdoor lighting can reduce crime at night, other experts say that the results of these studies are equivocal. And while recent work in the United Kingdom suggests that outdoor lighting may deter crime during the day, other studies point to other factors.

Putting motion-activated lights on your property can deter criminals. These lights mimic human activity when there are no people around, which can make them think that someone is watching them. In addition to motion-activated lighting, you can also opt to install security cameras. These cameras can help reduce the likelihood of crime on your property.

Another important benefit of outdoor lighting is that it helps police find burglars. Even if there’s no one around to see the activity, it will be easier for them to spot a suspicious person. Moreover, a barking dog deters burglars from committing a crime, as compared to a house with a security system.

Outdoor lighting is also effective in reducing crime because it lets passersby and neighbors know when suspicious activity is happening outside. Using timers is another way to mimic human activity, particularly when you’re away from home. Without witnesses, lighting is not of much use. It can help thieves catch their prey, so it’s important to place outdoor lighting around your home.

Even if outdoor lighting doesn’t prevent crime, it will make it harder for thieves to hide. Even if it does make it more difficult for a criminal to hide, it’s useless if no one sees the offender. The main reason for this is because burglars know that most people sleep with the lights off.

Adding security cameras can increase the effectiveness of porch lights in deterring burglars. These cameras are typically controlled by a smartphone app. They also come with 2-way audio and alarms. Besides helping prevent burglars from entering your house, smart security cameras also allow you to monitor your home while you’re away.

Besides helping you prevent burglars, outdoor lighting can also enhance the ambiance of your yard. If you have a garden or a landscape area, you can add lights that highlight these features and illuminate dark spots that might pose a threat. Also, make sure you illuminate paths and walkways if you have them.