Security Lighting
Outdoor Lighting for Security
A well-lit interior in the evening tells potential intruders that it’s likely someone is home. Exterior lighting as someone approaches, exposes them and makes them visible to the residents and neighbors. It’s not surprising then that thieves don’t care for light. Take a look at the lighting in and around your home to make it more safe and discourage prowlers.
Start with Exterior
The aim is to select and place fixtures in order to provide and even distribution of light at entrances and avoid any dark zones where a person might be able to hide. The brighter the light isn’t always the best, rather the larger the space that is lit up. However, left on all night, bright lights can annoy neighbors and make it difficult to sleep as well as use a lot of electricity. A mere 40-60 watts can be enough to deter a burglar when placed along walkways and borders. For increased safety around entries, place security lights which don’t burn all night, using a higher watt.
Remember to follow these guidelines when placing lights:
Entry-way Lights: Use fixtures with two bulbs. Having two bulbs provides greater light as well as ensures that when one bulb goes out you will still have lighting.
Garage Door Lights: A motion detecting light placed above the garage door will automatically turn on when someone enters the drive. Again, using a double fixture provides both a back-up and more lighting so whether it is friend or foe, you will know.
Walk-ways and Driveway Lights:
The path from the street to your house and from detached garage to your house should be well-lit. A simple post lamp can do the job. Or if you have a long walkway, try low-voltage lights along the path. Keep walk-way lights no taller than one foot.
Under Eaves Lights:
Using floodlights pointed downward from the eaves lights the house easily. Also include them at corners so as to illuminate two sides at the same time. Make sure to not point the floodlights away from the house because that will create gaps in lighting. If possible, also place the light fixtures high enough that they are unreachable by someone standing on the ground.
There are two different basic models available for the best lighting under eaves. The first is to choose one with a motion sensor in which the lights turn on should anything come into range. The second is a photoelectric model. This will turn on automatically at dusk and remain on until dawn.
Under Window Lights: Mount these fixtures on the ground and simply direct the light upwards through any applicable trees or shrubs. Be sure to use a low wattage in order to insure visibility from the house.
Under the Deck Lights:
A walk-out basement should have excellent lighting. If it is a door entrance, try using a motion sensor light. If it is a window, a simple low-voltage light will provide gentle illumination.