Do lights put burglars off?

Asked by: Kayli Lebsack I  |  Last update: May 17, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (52 votes)

Does leaving outside lights on deter burglars? In short, no, it's not an effective strategy alone to deter a burglar from targeting your property. However, in combination with security systems and other tactics, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your neighborhood.

Do burglars like lights on or off?

The burglars in this particular study did not come to a clear consensus on whether lighting was a sufficient deterrent: "Responses were mixed regarding lights on in a home. Some said it was a deterrent. But one burglar said the combination of lights on and blinds closed created an attractive location."

Is it safe to leave lights on all night?

Leaving lamps and overhead lights on while you're away is not only dangerous, but it increases your electric bill. Light bulbs can become very hot and even ignite a fire. Instead, invest in a motion-sensor outdoor lighting system.

What puts burglars off the most?

Security measures that put burglars off
  • Alarm Systems. Burglars hate alarm systems - and for very good reason! ...
  • Security cameras. CCTV cameras can also deter burglars from attempting to enter your home. ...
  • Barking dog. ...
  • A secure garden. ...
  • Access points. ...
  • Teamwork. ...
  • Obvious absence. ...
  • Social media oversharing.

Does leaving indoor lights on deter burglars?

Felson says indoor lights can deter burglars from breaking in, but they often break in anyway after knocking on the door to see if anyone answers. Outdoor security lighting is effective if there are people — neighbors, pedestrians or police — to actually see suspicious activity.

Do lights deter burglars?

32 related questions found

What really deters burglars?

An Alarm System

If you are serious about keeping your home secure then installing a home security system is an absolute must. Homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be broken into than homes with them. These systems incorporate: Security cameras and recording.

Should I leave a light on in my house at night?

FBI stats show that homes are broken into more during daylight hours so that light you leave on all night probably isn't doing much to help. Turn off lights in rural areas. Security experts agree that leaving a light on all night only aids a criminal to find their way in the dark.

What houses do burglars avoid?

Houses routinely vacant during the day.

Houses that appear occupied—with the lights on, a vehicle in the driveway, visible activity, or audible noises from within—are less likely to be burglarized. 28 Even houses near occupied houses generally have a lower risk of burglary.

What do thieves fear the most?

Security yard signs discourage many thieves. You may have already suspected it, but studies do confirm that burglars -- around 83% surveyed -- are scared off by signs that an alarm system is present, and one of the most straightforward is a literal sign or window sticker.

What time do most robberies occur at night?

Robberies happen in both daytime and nighttime. It depends upon the location, situation, human activity around the target, and the area of interest where the burglars want to strike. Specific hours of robberies usually fall between 9 p.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Should you leave your back porch light on at night?

Leaving your outside lights on at night can give the illusion that someone is home, and help neighbors keep watch of your property. However, leaving your lights on all day and night can be a clear indicator that nobody is at the property, which works against you.

Is it bad to leave a light on 24 7?

If you forgot to turn them off, LED bulbs are unlikely to overheat, trip electrics, or start a fire. On the other hand, incandescent, halogen, or fluorescent lights should never be left on for a week. These overheat and can cause a fire if left on for excessive periods.

Should I leave a light on when home alone?

Leaving a porch light on can help deter crime by improving visibility and making your home appear occupied. However, it's essential to understand that porch lights alone may not guarantee crime prevention. You can integrate it into your home security system to improve the overall security level of your property.

How can I make my house less attractive to burglars?

18 Ways to Theft-Proof Your Home Inside and Out
  1. Look for vulnerable spots. ...
  2. Lock doors and windows. ...
  3. Landscape strategically. ...
  4. Put up a fence. ...
  5. Install double-key deadbolts. ...
  6. Upgrade doors and locks. ...
  7. Install motion sensor lighting. ...
  8. Invest in a home security system.

Do lights at night reduce crime?

Increased visibility will reduce opportunities for potential vandalism and other property-related crimes. Lighting has a positive effect on reducing crime1, with the positive benefits similar to those observed for roadway lighting reducing crashes.

Does leaving TV on deter burglars?

Pro Tip: Along with leaving your TV on while you're away, you should also keep a few lights on inside and outside your home to keep burglars at bay.

How to scare a burglar away?

Best Burglar Deterrents: Top 8 Picks You Should Never Miss
  1. Security Cameras. Security cameras act as one of the most powerful tools to deter theft. ...
  2. Alarm Systems or Sirens. ...
  3. Outside Lights. ...
  4. Security Signs & Stickers. ...
  5. Burglarproof Spike Fences. ...
  6. Barking Dogs. ...
  7. Fake TVs. ...
  8. Steel Bars or Dowels in Doors & Windows.

How do you know if robbers are watching your house?

Common Signs Your House Is Being Cased
  • Sign #1: Parked but Occupied Vehicles. ...
  • Sign #2: A Knock on the Door. ...
  • Sign #3: Binoculars and Cameras. ...
  • Sign #4: Same Faces, Different Day. ...
  • Sign #5: Strangers in Your Yard. ...
  • Step #1: Cameras. ...
  • Step #2: A Home Security System. ...
  • Step #3: Consider a Dog.

Do burglars avoid houses with dogs?

Do dogs really act as a burglar deterrent? The short answer is yes, they do!

What do thieves hate most?

I do my best to never, ever, look like a crook. The two things I hate most: loud dogs & nosy neighbors. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing & wait to hear it again.

How to tell if someone is in your house at night?

How to Tell If Someone Is in Your Home
  1. You Hear Strange Noises. ...
  2. You Notice Things Are Missing or Moved. ...
  3. Your Pets Are on High Alert. ...
  4. You Feel as Though You Are Being Watched. ...
  5. How to Tell If Someone Tried to Break Into Your Home. ...
  6. Open Doors and/or Windows. ...
  7. Forced Entry. ...
  8. Lights.

How do robbers mark your house?

Unusual Objects Around the Property: Objects like stones, bottles, or pieces of string placed around your property may also be used as markers for burglars. Unexpected Door Knocks or Phone Calls: Burglars sometimes knock on doors or make phone calls to check if anyone's home.

Does having lights on deter burglars?

Research shows that leaving your lights on at night might not be effective at deterring crime if there is no one around to see it. Outdoor lights make the burglars harder to hide, but the lightning will be useless if no one actually sees the suspicious activity.

What light should you avoid at night?

Protect yourself from blue light at night

Avoid looking at bright screens beginning two to three hours before bed. If you work a night shift or use a lot of electronic devices at night, consider wearing blue-blocking glasses or installing an app that filters the blue/green wavelength at night.

Is it safer to leave porch light on or off?

Leaving a porch light on overnight is a somewhat effective home security measure. It may help prevent burglars from breaking in, as intruders on the property are visible to neighbors and passers-by. Outdoor lights left on at night also make it safer for residents when returning home.