Lighting Deters Burglars while Improving Property's Looks

Many experts agree that a few lights strategically placed could be your pass to protection when it comes to burglary.

"Using a light plan that is very strategic, not one that floods areas with light, you can achieve the two benefits of safety and security, as well as creating an aesthetically pleasing environment," said Denise Champagne of Osram Sylvania/Siemens.

That means your house can both look great -- and deter thieves -- with some simple low-tech, low cost solutions. Place pathway lights on the edges of your walkway. Use up-lights around shrubbery or jungle gyms to highlight landscape and minimize hiding places. Position a floodlight or two toward your house. It'll give your home a warm glow while deterring undesirables from your home's perimeter. Police say lights with motion detectors are another great deterrent, especially when homeowners are away.

"Hopefully a neighbor would see a light turn on, look out the window and see a suspicious person in the driveway and in turn call the police," said Sgt. George Marshall of the New Rochelle, N.Y., Police Department. "In addition, a burglar might turn away because of the light. Dark is a burglar's best friend."

Low-voltage lights and energy-efficient fluorescents and halogens may be the wallet's best friend.

"There have been so many advancements in lighting technologies in recent years that consumers can achieve good lighting plans and not sacrifice energy efficiency and the cost of running those bulbs," Champagne said.

Law enforcement experts agree that "running those bulbs" with timers can go a long way in deterring break-ins while you're away. With today's energy efficient light bulbs, you don't have to burn a hole in your pocket while lighting the outside.