• Homeowners often leave indoor lights on at night to deter burglars, but the truth is, this practice can have the opposite effect.
• The practice of leaving lights on can signal to burglars that no one is home.
• The glow of a light coming from inside a residence can be a signal that someone is home, but this is not the intended effect.

Many homeowners are under the impression that leaving one or two lights on inside their house when it’s dark outside will help deter burglars and other things that go bump in the night. Certainly, the glow of a light coming from inside a residence should signal that someone is home? Not exactly, say home security experts.

In fact, Kirk MacDowell, a home security expert from Batten, recommends against leaving indoor lights on at night, especially if it’s just a single light. According to MacDowell, leaving a light on can create an “illusion of activity throughout the house,” but this can also give the opposite impression—making it look like you’re out of town.

• Instead, MacDowell suggests using programmable light timers or smart lighting systems that create random lighting patterns.
• Random lighting patterns can make your home appear occupied without giving away your schedule.
• Burglars are less likely to target homes that seem unpredictable.

The Right Way To Use Indoor Lights
When it comes to safety and security, MacDowell says the goal is to create an “illusion of activity throughout the house.” This means having lights on in high-traffic areas like the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom.

1. However, the key is again, variation—using timers or motion sensors to simulate activity.
2. Timed lighting or motion-activated systems, especially for doors and windows, can startle intruders and allow you to monitor what’s on.
3. A well-designed lighting system can also improve safety and security in the home.

Consider Outdoor Options Too
When it comes to safety and prevention, MacDowell says he actually prefers outdoor lighting over indoor lighting.

“A well-lit exterior can deter intruders before they even reach your home. Motion-activated lights, especially those with an audible alarm, are most effective at scaring potential intruders and alerting you to movement,” MacDowell explains.

• It’s also important to have a balance—indoor lights on timers can complement your outdoor lighting.
• With that said, outdoor lighting can be more effective at deterring intruders than indoor lighting.

When You’re Away
It’s essential to mimic your normal lighting patterns when you’re out of town or on vacation. If you have a smart home system or programmable lights, set them to turn on and off at random intervals.

“If you have a smart home system or programmable lights, set them to turn on and off at random intervals. This will make it look like someone is home, even when you’re not,” Officer Aaron Fix from the Atlanta Police Department Public Affairs Unit suggests.