Success of Exterior Lighting for Crime Prevention
Exterior lighting around homes and business properties have been promoted as effective by law enforcement agencies, in terms of crime prevention. The success of this strategy depends at least partly on whether it is the only crime prevention tactic used or part of a broader, overall plan to reduce crime. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
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Suggestions
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Certain physical conditions reduce or encourage crime, according to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC). Turning on outdoor lights at night is one way to discourage criminal activity because it gives criminals the impression a house is occupied.
Effects
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Increased street lighting statistically reduces overall criminal activity both during day and night time hours, according to a paper written by Ken Pease at the University of Huddersfield. This is not always true when the lighting is not targeted to certain areas or circumstances, but seems to hold true when used in a targeted manner.
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Uses
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Exterior lighting proves effective in controlling crime in the majority of residential and commercial burglaries, vehicle crimes, robbery and drive offs at gas stations. People in well-lit areas also show less fear of crime in such places.
Tips
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Elevate light fixtures to provide complete coverage of an area, placing them so that the light will not be blocked by objects, plants or trees. Keep light poles and other structures away from walls, fences and buildings where they may permit climbing and thus provide access to an otherwise secure area.
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References
- Red Rocks Community College: Red Rocks Community College Safety and Security Information Report 2008
- Cincinnati: An Informational Brochure to Assist Property Owners Tactics to Reduce Crime through CPTED
- NCPC: National Crime Prevention Council
- Center for Problem-Oriented Policing: A Review of Street Lighting Evaluations
Resources
- Photo Credit broken street light image by tomcat2170 from Fotolia.com
