Do outside lights deter burglars?
One perspective to consider when evaluating the presence of outdoor lighting for burglary deterrence is the role of motivational factors. The data suggests that most burglaries are the result of opportunity, rather than a meticulous plan. For example:
- Most burglars live within two miles of the victim.
- The average burglary takes only minutes (some taking as little as 90 seconds).
- Most invaders are male and less than 25 years old.
- The average burglar also has a record for other offenses, including assault and drug-related crimes.
This data indicates that typical burglars strike at homes they consider to be easy targets to make a quick grab and they don't even go very far from their home base to accomplish that.
One study surveyed convicted burglars to get their take on the subject. The research was conducted to gauge offender motivations and burglary deterrents. KGW8 News surveyed 86 burglars and collected their responses.
The burglars in this particular study did not come to a clear consensus on whether lighting was a sufficient deterrent: "Responses were mixed regarding lights on in a home. Some said it was a deterrent. But one burglar said the combination of lights on and blinds closed created an attractive location."
Every burglar who took part in the study said that they would knock on the front door prior to attempting a break-in and almost all would reconsider breaking into a home if a car was in the driveway.
Responses and data regarding average burglaries suggest that the most important element for burglary prevention is a presence within the home.
Burglars prefer to break in when the house is empty. Cars in the driveway and residents answering doors was enough to ward off some seasoned invaders. Most indicated a preference for working quickly and quietly and leaving before anyone even knew they were there.
In fact, according to FBI data, most break-ins occur during the day between 10 AM and 3 PM because it is when people are least likely to be home. For the average break-in, the presence of lighting is not even a factor as daylight would overshadow any security lighting.
So do outdoor lights deter crime?They can, but only for a small portion of potential burglaries.
The key to using lighting as a burglar deterrent is to ensure your security lighting design seems natural, and not just on 24/7. We'll cover that in the next section
Using this information, there are a few ways you can use lighting as part of your crime prevention strategy.
FAQs
Leaving on lights at all times doesn't seem to be an effective way to deter crimes. With a little planning and some home automation equipment, you can use lighting to your advantage and get better peace of mind. Expect a call from an ADT Security Specialist as soon as possible.
Does leaving outside lights on deter burglars? ›
Does leaving outside lights on deter burglars? In short, no, it's not an effective strategy alone to deter a burglar from targeting your property. However, in combination with security systems and other tactics, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your neighborhood.
Do lights on at night deter robbers? ›
Lighting is a common way to deter burglaries, as thieves are less likely to approach or attempt to rob your house while its lights are on. If you're not home, then instead of keeping your lights on all the time, you can use the timer function in the Innr app to make it appear that you're at home at all times.
How to deter burglars at night? ›
Lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at doors as it makes it safer for you when coming and going after dark. A clear, low white light that activates at dusk to dawn is ideal for lighting a yard and garden and allowing any person to be clearly seen.
Is it safer to leave outside lights on or off at night? ›
When you're home at night. This is a good time to leave the porch light on. It alerts burglars to your presence, particularly if indoor lights are on too. The porch light also acts as a spotlight on the front door.
What is the number one thing to deter burglars? ›
1. Home Security Cameras. Our best deterrent for burglars is the presence of an outdoor security camera.
Do burglars avoid houses with lights on? ›
For the average break-in, the presence of lighting is not even a factor as daylight would overshadow any security lighting. So do outdoor lights deter crime? They can, but only for a small portion of potential burglaries.
What is the biggest deterrent for burglars? ›
Top 7 Burglar Deterrents to Keep Your Property Safe from Crime
- Visible alarm systems. An intruder alarm should head up your priority list if you are looking to prevent break-ins. ...
- CCTV cameras. ...
- Locked doors and windows. ...
- Thorny borders. ...
- Lighting. ...
- Barking dog. ...
- Gravel.
According to cooperative insurer's research theft is most likely to occur on a Friday. Around 40% of break ins occur during the day whilst 60% take place during the evening or at night. It's really important to use your home security, day and night.
Should you pretend to be asleep if someone breaks in? ›
Burglars Do More Than Steal
At night, if you think you hear someone breaking in, leave safely if you can, then call the police. If you can't leave, lock yourself in a room with a phone and call the police. If an intruder is in your room, pretend you are asleep.
Barking dog
All dogs are loud and attract attention. No thief wants to deal with this type of inconvenience on their way. However, if you don't have a dog or don't want to get one, a barking dog alarm is a great option. It's an alarm device that imitates angry barking when it detects motion.
What are burglars scared of? ›
You may have already suspected it, but studies do confirm that burglars -- around 83% surveyed -- are scared off by signs that an alarm system is present, and one of the most straightforward is a literal sign or window sticker.
How often do burglars break in at night? ›
FBI burglary data in 2022 showed that 239,137 of all reported residential burglaries occurred in the daytime compared to 184,846 at night.
Why do people leave their front porch lights on at night? ›
A Porch Light Can Keep Intruders Away
One of the main reasons that people leave their porch light on is to increase the security of their homes while they sleep. It lets people know that someone is home, including criminals and thieves who may be looking for vulnerable properties.
Does lighting deter crime? ›
There is no clear scientific evidence that increased outdoor lighting deters crimes. It may make us feel safer, but it has not been shown to make us safer.
Why shouldn't you leave a light on all night? ›
“l*terature shows that exposure to light during the night may increase the risk for metabolic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity.”
Do outdoor lights help with security? ›
The first benefit of exterior lighting systems is an increase in home security. A well-lit home helps deter potential criminal activity like vandalism, loitering, and break-ins. Motion-activated floodlights are some of the best security lighting options for your home's safety.
Do lights put burglars off? ›
Take a few simple measures to reduce the likelihood of being burgled. Leave a light on: Leave a light on inside the house (choose well-used rooms such as the lounge or bedroom – not a hallway or other largely unused area). The intention is to create the impression that someone is in – a significant deterrent.
Does outdoor lighting increase security? ›
Along with functionality, outdoor lighting significantly enhances home security as a well-lit exterior deters potential intruders, minimizing the likelihood of break-ins. Additionally, it improves visibility for homeowners, allowing them to identify any unusual activity around their property.
