Lighting often overlooked as home-security asset

With winter upon us and daylight hours getting shorter, now is the time to review the amount of light that surrounds our home. Lighting is a very important part of home security that unfortunately is quite often overlooked. We secure our window and doors but tend to overlook those dark hidden areas.

Outdoor lighting systems are inexpensive and are available at most local hardware stores. This type of lighting is very sophisticated with motion detectors that have infrared sensors that detect motion and activate the lights even in complete darkness. Motion lighting is very convenient for homeowners returning home in the evening, lighting up pathways and entryways as well as shedding light on possible intruders.

Exterior lighting should be bright enough to see one hundred feet, identifying colours and creating a deterrent for would-be thieves.

Interior lighting is very important to show signs of activity and create a pattern of occupancy when you are absent from your home.

Light timers are another inexpensive security item that should be on you home security shipping list. Typically you should use light timers near your front and back windows with your curtains drawn. You can set these timers to activate you lights to come on and off at your selected times. The pattern of lights clicking on and off simulates actual occupancy, and creates a comfortable environment when entering your home in the dark. Light timers can also be used on radios, televisions and certain appliances to further enhance the illusion of occupancy.

Lighting is getting more and more sophisticated with the developments of exterior lighting that comes with an interior receiver that can activate lights and alarms inside the home. And for the more technical homeowner there are systems that allow you to control the lighting in your home from your favourite vacation spot through the use of your home computer.

Lighting is enhanced by a well trimmed yard, so keep shrubbery that is close to the house pruned to a height that is no greater than three feet. In addition, keep trees pruned to a point where the lowest branches are at least seven feet from the ground creating good visibility to your home.

If you must have plants close to your windows, select plants with sharp thorns or needles such as pyracantha or rose bushes.