External and internal lights

Lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at entrances and exits, as it makes it safer for you coming and going after dark.

A house with no lights on and surrounded by darkness is much more likely to become a target for burglars, as it can signal it is empty and that they may be able to operate unseen.

Security lighting, such as motion-sensor floodlights or timer-controlled interior lights, creates the impression of occupancy and increases the risk of intruders being seen.

External lights

• Consider instead dusk-till-dawn lighting, which switch on automatically and can give a constant low white light.
• Check to make sure any trees or plants do not obscure your lighting, and cut any vegetation back each spring and during the growing season.
• Passive infra-red lights automatically switch on when they detect movement. However, they can be easily activated by animals and visitors, which may lower their effectiveness and cause unnecessary alarm.
• Bollard lighting is not advised as the main external light source for a home, as it often fails to illuminate faces to a satisfactory level and can be easily tampered with.

Internal lights

• Use an automatic plug-in time switch to operate a lamp or light at pre-set times when you are away from home. Varying the times of operation is a good way to avoid familiarity.
• Lighting an upper room on a timer is also an increased deterrent.
• Energy-saving LED bulbs are best as they do not use as much electricity, last much longer than conventional bulbs, and do not generate heat – reducing your fire risk.
• In blocks of flats, automatic low energy lights that detect movement are recommended for corridors, stairwells and communal areas, such as car parks or cycle stores.

Report related crimes

• Report anti-social behaviour
• Report burglary