Do Burglars Avoid Houses with Lights On? What Experts Say

There’s something comforting about the warm, inviting glow of lights in a home. It’s as if the flickering lamps and bright street lights around your property create an invisible force field, warding off potential danger. When night falls, and your house is bathed in light, it might feel like you’re protected from lurking intruders. But does this common belief actually hold up? Do burglars avoid houses with lights on, or is it more of a myth? Let’s dig deeper and see what the experts have to say.

Setting the Scene: The Power of Light

It’s an age-old idea: a brightly lit home is a safe home. Maybe it’s because we’ve grown up with the idea that bad things happen in the dark. You can almost still hear your parents’ voices telling you to leave a light on in the driveway or to turn on outdoor lights before going to bed. And the reasoning behind this advice seems sound – after all, when a house is well-lit, it’s harder for someone to sneak around unnoticed.

So, it’s no surprise that when you’re out of town or returning late at night, you might leave a few lights on to create the illusion that someone’s home. But does this really deter burglars? Or are we just relying on wishful thinking?

The Truth Behind the Myth: Do Burglars Avoid Houses with Lights On?

According to studies and security experts, leaving lights on all night might not be the foolproof deterrent that we think it is. Sure, it can make burglars think twice, but it’s not a guarantee that they’ll stay away. In fact, there are several factors that contribute to whether a home is targeted by criminals, and lighting is only one piece of the puzzle.

The Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that the majority of home burglaries occur during the daytime, and a significant number of them happen when homeowners aren’t around. Burglars generally don’t wait until it’s pitch black outside to make their move. Instead, they often strike when they believe a property is vacant, and the presence or absence of lights can be a clue.

What Experts Say About Home Lighting

A major factor in whether a burglar will target a home or not is the ability to avoid detection. An intruder’s primary goal is to stay undetected while committing the crime. But does this mean that burglars avoid houses with lights on?

The answer is more nuanced. A well-lit home can indeed discourage some burglars who don’t want to risk getting caught. However, sophisticated burglars who are experienced in avoiding detection might see a lit-up house as an opportunity to blend in rather than avoid it. For example, a person walking down the street might appear to be simply passing by a well-lit home rather than sneaking around it.

According to a study from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, 60% of convicted burglars reported that they would avoid a home if they saw a security camera or alarm. In other words, the presence of a security system and cameras plays a far more significant role in discouraging burglars than just the lighting.

Why Custom Smart Home Solutions Offer More Protection

If you’re serious about protecting your home, relying on lights alone may not be the most effective approach. That’s where custom smart home solutions come into play. These custom security solutions aren’t just about smart lighting; they integrate various security features to create a comprehensive system designed to keep your home safe.

For instance, many custom smart home systems allow you to control not just your lights but also your home’s security cameras, alarm systems, and even door locks – all from the convenience of your smartphone. This allows you to turn on your lights or activate motion-sensor lights around your property remotely, giving the impression that someone is home even if you’re miles away. This level of control makes your home appear more secure, providing more effective deterrence against potential burglars.

The Role of Home Security Camera Systems

The home security camera system installation is one of the key components of an effective home defense system. While lights can discourage intruders to a certain degree, cameras offer a much higher level of deterrence. These systems not only capture footage that can help law enforcement track down burglars, but their very presence often makes criminals think twice before entering your home.

A security camera can provide real-time surveillance of your property, allowing you to monitor areas around your home at all times. For many burglars, knowing that they’re on camera is enough to make them reconsider their actions. The mere sight of security cameras visible on your property can create doubt in their minds about whether they’ll get away with their crime.

If you’re planning to enhance your home’s protection, consulting with a local security company can be a smart move. Local experts can recommend the best setup for your unique property, including the strategic placement of cameras and sensors to cover all vulnerable points. With today’s technology, some home security camera system installations are also equipped with features like motion detection, night vision, and remote access, further boosting your home’s security.

More Than Just Lights: The Need for Custom Security Solutions

Relying solely on lighting for home protection can be shortsighted. Instead, investing in custom security solutions that fit the specific needs of your property can make all the difference. While lights certainly have their role, an integrated approach that combines lighting, alarms, cameras, and smart technology offers far more peace of mind.

Custom solutions are tailored to address the unique vulnerabilities of your home. For example, a property with a large backyard or one that backs onto a wooded area might benefit from additional motion sensor lighting or outdoor cameras. By working with a local security company, you can create a system that’s designed to address these areas specifically, ensuring that every corner of your property is properly protected.

The Bottom Line: Do Burglars Avoid Houses with Lights On?

To put it bluntly: No, burglars don’t always avoid houses with lights on. While lighting can be a deterrent, it’s far more effective when combined with a comprehensive security system that includes cameras, alarms, and other custom solutions. 

You have a responsibility to protect your home, business, valuables and loved ones with more than just light and luck. The best way to secure your home from burglary is to invest in a holistic approach that incorporates modern technology and security measures, all designed to make your property less appealing to criminals.

Coggin Security is the most trusted name in Myrtle Beach security. Let us help protect you today!