Dec 2, 2016
It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this time of year, when the days keep getting shorter and shorter?
Those answers can differ depending on a number of factors. However, one thing is clear: With more than 1.5 million residential burglaries in the U.S. in 2015, according to the FBI’s Crime in the United States report, it takes more than flipping a switch to prevent property crime.
So, if you are relying on lights as part of your home security routine, be sure to put some thought into how you’re using them. Here are recommendations about when to light things up — and some instances where it may be better to go dark. Contact your local law enforcement if you’re curious about recommendations specific to your area.
When to Keep Your Lights On
There are plenty of instances where it makes sense to leave your porch light on:
When to Keep Your Lights Off
Despite what many people think, having your lights on all the time isn’t helpful. In fact, it may actually attract burglars. Here’s when you should think about leaving them off:
An Even Better Option: Automate Your Lights
The goal of lighting, at least from a security standpoint, is to make burglars think someone is home. The most effective way to do that is through lights, both inside and out, that turn on and off at varying times. You can accomplish this through systems that automatically turn lights on after sundown, or even new options that allow you to control lights from your phone or other mobile device.
And, don’t forget motion-sensing lights. They’re affordable, and they can startle burglars and even impair their vision in the moments after they illuminate.
Other Things to Consider
However you use your lights, it might not matter if you don’t take other security measures. For example, are your trees and shrubs trimmed, or do they instead provide cover for someone casing your home? Do you have a good relationship with your neighbors? Will they notice if someone suspicious is outside? Do they even know when you’re going out of town?
Remember, turning on your lights may only be truly effective as part of an overall strategy to keep your home secure.Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.
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