SHERIFF CARMINE MARCENO’S APRIL 2025 SAFETY & SECURITY TIP: THE VALUE OF LIGHTING
The list of proactive security measures that can be taken to protect your home and/or business is lengthy. Some are more effective than others.
Surprisingly, few of these measures are more effective than efficient lighting.
Bright lights deter criminal activity. Thieves, burglars and vandals search for low-risk targets…locations at which their movements and methods are easily concealed.
Many security experts agree that lighting is the most cost-effective and efficient way to protect your property.
Decisions must be made, following careful consideration, regarding the type of lighting, how it is activated (full-time, motion-activated, timer-activated), height and location.
Lighting positioned too high will diffuse the light and be less effective. Conversely, lighting placed at lower heights will greatly reduce the area of coverage.
Lighting used in conjunction with a video security system, if positioned correctly, will greatly enhance the quality of the captured video.
To begin, observe your home or business from the exterior, as if you were a prospective intruder. Where would you seek entry? What entry point appears to be easiest to penetrate? Where would your activity be unseen?
Now, go indoors looking outward. Where would you need lighting in order to best see movement? What darkened areas seem most vulnerable?
Following this exercise, you will likely be prepared to select lighting locations.
Final thoughts…
It is also important to be mindful of your neighbors and the glare of your lighting. Ensure that your lighting does not adversely affect those living next door or nearby.
Consider motion lighting. When motion is detected and the light comes on, your vigilance generally increases.
Speak with lighting experts regarding the use of solar-powered lighting. Solar-powered lighting continues to work when the power grid is down and is easily wired.
In addition to preventing and hindering illegal actions, well-lit areas allow first responders…law enforcement, fire and ambulatory services…to respond more efficiently.