A range of outdoor lighting security systems are available. Motion sensors attached to security lighting systems enable you to utilize the lighting only when necessary. Solar lighting technology is improving rapidly and some solar lighting systems are equipped with motion detectors. Most would-be intruders would scatter when suddenly confronted by the fact that they are visible for all the world to see.

Timers attached to your lights both inside and out will give the impression of occupation even if you are away on holiday. Lighting can be attached to a remote control device to enable you to turn on the lights without having to go to the switch. This could be useful if confronted with the possibility of an intrusion.

Recently a combination surveillance camera/motion security flood-lighting system became available'an innovation that should prove to be very effective and popular.

Lights should be placed strategically where they will be most needed: for example around your garage area, patio, pathways and front and back doors. An added advantage is that your family and guests will not risk injury walking about in the dark of night. When installing floodlights an important consideration is the aiming of the lights. Be very careful not to aim them into neighbouring properties or into the street. Incorrectly aimed floodlights can cause disquiet in the neighbourhood, and danger to traffic. If adjustment proves to be difficult, a shield may be required to limit the range of illumination.

Another consideration is that motion detectors need to be installed and aimed properly to avoid floodlighting illuminating unnecessarily when animals move through the area of detection.

Outdoor lighting systems are generally low voltage, low wattage setups which are safer and cheaper to run. Many security systems are well within the price range of the average home owner, and of course consideration needs to be given to the question: ?Can I afford to NOT have a home security system??

The outdoor lighting system that you decide to invest in should reflect due consideration on your part of various factors, including effectiveness, ease of installation, aesthetic qualities and cost. If a more complex arrangement is to be installed, a qualified person perhaps should be employed, which of course increases the cost, but it should be remembered that we get what we pay for, which is not to say we need to pay the earth, but that it is a consideration.

A reasonably adequate security lighting system can be installed quite cheaply. The security provided by nothing more than motion sensitive lighting may be all anyone would need. On the other hand, if you want to invest in remote controlled lighting as well as motion sensors and camera surveillance, timers and an alarm system, you will obviously be looking at greater cost for greater security?perhaps a good investment.