It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you\u2019re away (or even while you\u2019re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity \u2014 particularly this time of year, when the days keep getting shorter and shorter?<\/p>\n
Those answers can differ depending on a number of factors. However, one thing is clear: With more than 1.5 million residential burglaries in the U.S. in 2015, according to the FBI\u2019s Crime in the United States report, it takes more than flipping a switch to prevent property crime.<\/p>\n
So, if you are relying on lights as part of your home security routine, be sure to put some thought into how you\u2019re using them. Here are recommendations about when to light things up \u2014 and some instances where it may be better to go dark. Contact your local law enforcement if you\u2019re curious about recommendations specific to your area.<\/p>\n
When to Keep Your Lights On<\/strong><\/p>\n There are plenty of instances where it makes sense to leave your porch light on:<\/p>\n When to Keep Your Lights Off<\/strong><\/p>\n Despite what many people think, having your lights on all the time isn\u2019t helpful. In fact, it may actually attract burglars. Here\u2019s when you should think about leaving them off:<\/p>\n\n
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