A number of different types of security lighting are available for an assortment of applications. When installing lighting systems which are designed to contribute to security, people should think about their options and select a system which will work well for them. Urban residents may also want to note that some police organizations and neighborhood watch associations will pay for security lighting, and/or help people install it, which can be a definite advantage.
Outdoor security lighting is lighting which is designed to illuminate outdoor areas. Some examples of such lighting include street lights, garage door lamps, and the lamps many people use to light front doors and pathways. This type of lighting is supposed to deter criminals to make them easier to see, while also helping people get around when it's dark.
Indoor security lighting provides light inside. It may be used to deter criminals by making it look like people are still present, or by providing a pool of light so that passerby and neighbors can see and report questionable activity. Sometimes, insurance companies may require this type of security lighting for businesses, to make a business harder to rob.
Some security lighting is on an automatic timer, which can be set to go on and off at a particular time. Other systems are light-sensitive, and designed to operate from dawn to dusk. It is also possible to find manually operated lighting, such as a security lighting system which goes on when someone flips a switch while he or she closes up, and remotely operated lighting, which can be useful for people who want to be able to control the lights at a distant business. Others are sensitive to motion, remaining off unless someone walks by.
Energy efficiency is a major concern for security lighting, and something which people should think about. Some lights are solar powered, which makes them very efficient, while others will pull power from the structure they are attached to. Using high-efficiency lights with good bulbs can cut down on operating expenses. So can correct placement, to ensure that the light is not wasted.
Light pollution should also be a concern when evaluating lighting options. A bright, badly-aimed light can cause a lot of glare, making it hard for people to see, and contributing to overall levels of light pollution. Choosing a light with a shielded housing will make security lighting less annoying for the neighbors, and also more functional, as criminals can easily hide behind a glaring light.