subject: Outdoor Lighting For Security Applications And Outdoor Lighting Tips You Can Use [print this page] This article explains some of the design constraints which apply when using outdoor lighting for security reasons. A careful and well thought out design is needed, because in some cases badly designed security lighting can be counter-productive.
Security lighting is mainly employed as a preventative measure, deterring physical intrusions onto a residence or other type of property. Of course, as well as deterring intruders it will help detect and identify any person who still enters the property, and it often gives a feeling of safety to the individual homeowner, or to all the residents in an area which has public security lighting.
Nevertheless in some cases security lighting has been shown to be ineffective, or worse, to actually increase crime. The designer should be aware of this possibility, and take steps to guard against it. One way in which the lighting increases crime, is by making the criminal aware of the presence of a possible target. One school in Texas found that vandalism was reduced 55% by turning off lights at night!
The security outdoor lighting itself can also be a target for vandals. Lights should therefore be mounted very high, or protected by vandal proof wire mesh or polycarbonate screens. Alternate schemes may include recessing the light itself, while directing the light via a polished aluminum or stainless steel mirror.
It is also necessary to protect the electricity supply from tampering and other interference. The electric meter box should be either locked or completely inaccessible, and all control and power lines should be either buried in conduits, or at a height of at least 24 feet. Very secure systems may also wish for further protection, for example by having a standby generator installed.
Criminals are also often aware that the outdoor lighting can actually create glare, and therefore hide the criminals activities. Generally bright and unshielded floodlights can cause this problem, and should often be avoided.
The designer of the lighting system should make sure he understand how the lit area will be observed. If there are CCTV cameras then where will they be mounted; if there are security guards then where are they likely to be patrolling. The lighting often needs to carefully designed to reduce glare for the observers.
Outdoor Lighting Tips You Can Use
These days more and more people are spending time outdoors, enjoying a family barbecue or a pool party. Many of these events are taking place later in the day and the need for outdoor lighting has increased. Besides parties or events outdoor lighting is critical to other areas of your business or home. In this article we will take a look at why this is important and some tips to help you.
One of the most important steps that you will want to make is devise a plan for your lighting needs. Many people do not make plans, and when it comes time to getting the job done it never gets done right. By planning ahead you can get it done right and enjoy your home that much more.
Purchasing the right fixtures, wiring and having them installed correctly are very important. If you have no knowledge of wiring and putting up fixtures it is best to leave it to a professional. They know exactly what will work and what will not. The professional can also give you suggestions on what would work best for you as well.
There are many different places that outdoor lighting should be considered. Walkways are one area that many people tend to forget about. At night many accidents can happen if no lights are used on walkways. Make sure this does not happen to you or your friends.
Swimming pools can be a very danger place especially if there is no lighting at all. Waterproof pond lights should be installed to help keep people safe. Flood lights in your backyard are also something to consider as well. These are also great security devices when you happen to be away.
Do not overdo it when it comes to outdoor lighting either. Many people get excited about lighting up their homes and backyards and go to the extreme. This will just cause you more problems than it really is worth. Maintenance will also need to be done such as changing bulbs so keep this in mind when installing lighting as well.
