Detailed Information on Security Lights

Security Lights are very important in the case of “physical security”, and are most often used as a protective and preventive measure against theft, intrusions, or any other criminal activities liable on any personal property. Security lighting is mainly provided to help in detection of intruders. It is used to enhance the feeling of safety.

• Purpose of using Security Lights

Security lights are generally used in the commercial and residential areas. Security lighting should be quite simple and bright enough to prevent any intruders from entering the office or home. You can use them anywhere but preferably in secured area outside your house or near the driveway.

The uses of security lights are as follows:

1. Outside lighting helps to prevent any possibility of theft or crimes by illuminating the paths and entrances at night.
2. It also helps to detect crime by creating a well-lit area outside the house.
3. As they help to remove shadows where the intruder can hide, thus they help in discouraging thefts or burglary.

It is also used for institutional, industrial, and military purposes. Some of the examples include floodlights and sodium vapor lights. Most lights are intended to be kept on throughout the night, and should be energy saving, and thus reducing the cost of lighting for long periods.

• Directions for use

The security lights are generally installed in the darker sides of the house.

Prior to installing, always pay attention to the shadowy places in the garden.

Some places to give attention to –

1. The garage, to illuminate the driveway.
2. The porch to deter intruders from entering. This also helps in preventing possible accidents on uneven grounds.
3. Near the corners and vulnerable areas of your house.

Security lights are often vulnerable to tampering, or an attempt to reduce its efficiency. They should be –

1. Mounted very high.
2. Protected by wires or polycarbonate shields.
3. Easily replaceable in case of damage.
4. Powered from a different line in case the electric box is not protected.
5. Connected by multiple circuits to prevent accidental or malicious short-circuit causing all other appliances to fail.

• Different types of Security lights-

The most commonly used one is the Halogen lamps. It is really less expensive than others are and easy to install.

There are the Sodium vapor lamps, which emit powerful bright light and again one of the cheaper ways of keeping your house safe.

Solar security lights are even more powerful. It converts solar energy into electricity. However, you need to place them where they get maximum exposure to sunlight.

Recent advancements include Mercury-vapor lamps and Passive infrared Sensors, which are very efficient.

Though there are many advantages of these security lights but there still exist some shortcomings which are listed below.

1. Halogen lamps are yellow in color, so the illuminated areas cannot be color differentiated.
2. Some lamps require greater running cost, so you need to select the lamps best suited for your use.
3. High-pressure sodium lamps take longer time to switch on.
4. Lights are useful only at night, and they cannot be used to prevent intrusions during the day.