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It may seem arbitrary, but many security providers suggest that homeowners leave their porch lights on throughout the evening for safety reasons. We know electricity isn’t cheap, but the cost of keeping the lights on is worth the extra safety it brings to your home.

Lighting up areas of your yard and porch will guide you into your house in the evening and keep burglars away, as most will prefer to lurk in the dark undetected. However, leaving your porch light on won’t guarantee your safety. 

Criminals who have been casing your property probably know when you turn your porch light on and off. For example, outdoor lights should go on at night and be turned off during the day.  While lighting indoors should go on and off in different rooms as if someone is moving around. These lights can be put on timers to mimic movement in the home, especially when you are away on vacation.

Combining bright porch lights with other security measures will make you feel safer and more secure.

Coming Home Late

If you come home from work or social functions when it is dark, it is best to leave the porch light on to deter criminals or at least allow for the sight of any danger.

Keeping the porch light on allows the person arriving home to unlock the door quickly and get in the house.

It is advised to notify a family member when you arrive home after dark; this way, someone can watch to see if there is any danger. Make connections with your neighbours, patrol groups or support groups, and always have someone on the lookout when possible. 

Deliveries

It is a good idea to illuminate the porch if you are expecting a delivery. Ensure the area is well-lit at night for you and the driver’s safety. Carry a torch with you for extra visibility, says an article on delivery safety by Business Tech.

Motion Sensor Lights

If you want to deter intruders, as to whether or not you’re actually at home or have just left the light on, the best thing to do is use lights with motion sensors. An effective method of scaring off predators is frightening them. The motion-activated lights don’t just scare off potential criminals but also work for properties in more secluded areas – they will scare off wild animals that wander into your backyard too.

When the lights are triggered, that gives you a clear sign to check your yard for any dangers. According to Blue Security SA, a bug, rodents, birds, and feral cats may also affect the efficiency of your motion detectors and trigger the sensor but it’s always a good idea to check.

You can receive immediate alerts to your smartphone whenever the sensors are triggered if you’re away from home. 

iER

If you feel unsafe while walking home or notice anyone on your property who doesn’t belong there, select the emergency mobile panic button. The friendly and helpful iER call centre agents will ensure that the proper authorities are sent to your doorstep.