Lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at entrances and exits, as it makes it safer for you when coming and going after dark. Ensure it is out of reach to prevent tampering.
Passive infra-red (PIR) lights automatically switch on when they detect movement but are easily activated by animals and genuine visitors. This may lower their effectiveness and cause unnecessary alarm.
Consider photo-electric cell lighting (dusk till dawn), which switches on automatically between dusk and dawn, providing a constant low white light.
Check to ensure that trees and plants do not obscure your lighting. It is recommended to cut back vegetation each spring and during the growing season.
Bollard lighting is not advised as the primary external light source for a home because it often fails to illuminate faces satisfactorily and can be easily tampered with.
Internal lighting
Use an automatic plug-in time switch to operate a lamp or light at pre-set times when you are away. Varying the times of operation is an effective way to avoid familiarity.
Lighting an upper room on a timer serves as an increased deterrent.
Energy-saving LED bulbs are recommended as they use less electricity, last much longer than conventional bulbs, and do not generate heat, reducing fire risk.
In blocks of flats, automatic low-energy lights that detect movement are recommended for corridors, stairwells, and communal areas such as car parks and cycle stores.
Take care to position these lights so light
pollution does not annoy your neighbours.
