Experts have examined the issue of external lights for home security
Homeowners concerned about security are being encouraged to install a specific type of outside light that could help deter burglars. Addressing the question “are external lights a good idea for security?”, the Ask the Police website, run by the Police National Legal Database, advises that they are indeed worth it.
They say the answer is “yes” – especially when it comes to a specific type. The site explains: “Yes they are, outside lights deter potential burglars from dark hidden areas.
“The best type of external light is one that stays on all the time. Any intruder that has made up their mind to break into a property will more than likely not be put off by lights that are triggered by movement.
“If the light is on all the time then it may make them think twice before attempting to break into the property.” In response to another question that asks “how can I protect my home from burglary?”, the website recommends making sure you have taken all the necessary steps to ensure your home is not a target.
It writes: “A secure home will reduce the chance of you getting burgled. Many domestic burglaries are committed by opportunists; criminals will look for homes that have little or no obvious security, have doors or windows left open or seem unoccupied.”
How people can try to prevent a home break-in
The site recommends these “top tips” below “to help keep your home safe from thieves”.
- Install an alarm system to help to deter burglars.
- Ensure you have a robust, secure front door with British Standard-approved locks and hinges.
- Install outside lighting, such as motion sensor lights, so that intruders cannot approach without being seen.
- Lock your doors and windows every time you leave the house, even when you are just out in the garden.
- Consider installing CCTV, as this is good deterrent for thieves and if you are targeted, CCTV can provide valuable evidence.
- When you go out, leave radios or lights in your house on a timer to make the property appear occupied.
- Keep hedges and walls at the front of your house low (under one metre) so burglars have nowhere to hide.
- Keep side and rear boundaries high and add trellis or prickly defensive planting to make it harder for burglars to climb over.
- If you have a sliding patio door, check that it has an anti-lift device fitted so it can’t be lifted out of the frame.
- Move bins or garden furniture that could be used to reach windows.
- Ensure communal doors in flats/apartments are closed and secure, and report any faults to your landlord or maintenance company.
- Never buzz anyone into the building who you do not know, or let them follow behind you.
- Lock and secure any sheds and outbuildings.
- Property mark and register valuable items.
- Think about having your door reinforced with a security door bar.
- Mark your property with a UV marker pen or security DNA marking kit – these can be bought online or in some stores.
