Graveney Advent Calendar - 17th December 17 Dec 06:00

17

 

Lighting - Exterior

A useful addition to perimeter security can be exterior lighting, either switched manually or automatically operated. Lighting does have its limitations - burglaries often take place during daylight hours; if the light is activated, someone has to notice it - and take action. Lighting should be seen as an aid, but on its own it is not sufficient to deter a burglar.

The most common form of lighting is passive infra-red which is activated when someone comes into its field of vision. The light can be set to stay on for a set time and then it will re-set if the cause of its activation is no longer present. A passive infra-red unit can activate single or multiple lights.

Lights can be useful on the approach to a front or rear door or garage, not only lighting up if someone approaches your house, but also when you approach, so that you can see if anyone is lurking in the shadows. It must be remembered though that lights can be activated by certain animals. Also, you do not want the light to be activated every time your neighbours go into their garden or when someone walks past the front of your property. However, the field of activation can be adjusted. You must also make sure that your light does not intrude into your neighbours windows or those of passing vehicles - light pollution can often be at the centre of many disputes.

An alternative is to fit low pressure sodium lights which are operated by a photo-electric cell. This turns the lights on at dusk and off at dawn. It is a much less obtrusive light and, although it is on all night, it can be cheaper to run than spotlights.

These lights can be DIY fitted, but if you are not sure, it is essential that you contact a qualified electrical contractor.

 

Your Safer Neighbourhood Team:

PS Lee ROGERSON
PC Elaine BROWN                          PC Louise VICKERS

PCSO Dan BEALL                           PCSO Will HUGHES
PCSO Gary McKEOWN                  PCSO Maria COZMA

You can contact the team on 020 8721 2724 or mertongraveney.SNT@met.police.uk

To report Crime please remember to call 999 if there is a crime happening ‘now’ or the new non-emergency number 101 if it has already happened.