FLASHERS

[morqthana]

are security lights a good deterrent - Google Search

 

[JBR]

Given how you intend to use the external lights, I would be inclined to keep it simple. An FCU as your on/off switch for the circuit, with a photocell automatically switching your lights on at dusk and off at dawn.

You wouldn't ever really have to switch the circuit off.

Well yes. That is more or less exactly what I have done. Today, I replaced the timer with a simple on/off switch.
I could just leave it turned on permanently, as six out of our seven outside lights at the front are LEDs, each with photocell light sensors.

The reason why I now turn the switch off when we get up is that the one of seven is fluorescent without a light sensor. I'd change it for an LED with sensor, like the other six, but I can't get up a ladder (or Marge won't allow me!) to change it.

So I'll usually turn the lot off as I said, but if we're away for a day or two I'll just leave it all turned on. One small fluorescent lamp won't break the bank!

 

[JBR]

Indoor or outdoor lighting acts as a deterrent.

I agree. We also have an alarm system which is on whenever we are out or in bed (except for the bedroom). We recently had some of the sensors updated to some which will not fire up if the cats stroll about, and which seem to work very well. The box outside also has flashing blue lights to indicate that it is armed.
We also have two Ring cameras with lights round the back for good measure. Also interesting to see where the cats go at night!

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

are security lights a good deterrent - Google Search

Exactly, are you on 'something'?

 

[morqthana]

I'm on being able to read.

I'm on being able to read that there are many caveats re so-called-security-lighting.

I'm on being able to read that they are a far from universally beneficial or effective deterrent.

What I'm not on is having the slightest interest in arguing the toss with you.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

I said lighting is a deterrent, you suggested it had no value, then in post #31 you yourself posted a link to a Google which confirms my point of view and exactly what I said.

 

[JohnW2]

As JohnW2 and Harry said, that is my philosophy with the one difference that I like to leave the lights on overnight for purposes of security.

As you will realise, that's not the case with me, BUT all of the lights are controlled (jointly) by a number of PIRs during the hours of darkness when they are not permanently on (i.e. from 10:30 GMT until dawn).

One sting in the tail of all this (if one's interest is 'security') is that I recently saw a report from our local police force which seems to indicate that, at least in my area, house/garden/garage etc. burglaries are actually more common during the daytime than during the hours of darkness!

Kind Regards, John

 

[Taylortwocities]

My neighbour has a PIR operated light by his front door, which also has a photocell override. Presumably the idea is that it doesn't come on if the PIR is triggered in the day.

It was designed by an idiot. After dark, when triggered, it comes on. Photocell says no - it's daylight, so off it goes. Photocell says yes, it's dark, so on it comes. Photocell says no - it's daylight, so off it goes. Repeat.

The photocell just needs moving to a place that is only illuminated by daylight. Simples!

Meerkat

• Taylortwocities
• 11 Dec 2009
• 53

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

One sting in the tail of all this (if one's interest is 'security') is that I recently saw a report from our local police force which seems to indicate that, at least in my area, house/garden/garage etc. burglaries are actually more common during the daytime than during the hours of darkness!

No such problems here...

I have double fences around three sides. The only sensible way in, is via the road at the front, where I have gates which are always kept closed, and a couple of notices to be aware of the dogs. I am aware that keeps many casual visitors out, which is no bad thing, but it keeps the less casual, unwanted ones out too.

 

[SUNRAY]

My neighbour has a PIR operated light by his front door, which also has a photocell override. Presumably the idea is that it doesn't come on if the PIR is triggered in the day.

It was designed by an idiot. After dark, when triggered, it comes on. Photocell says no - it's daylight, so off it goes. Photocell says yes, it's dark, so on it comes. Photocell says no - it's daylight, so off it goes. Repeat.

One of the sheds sold some expensive cast iron effect PIR lights many years ago with the sensor INSIDE the shade

 

[Mister Banks]

I agree. We also have an alarm system which is on whenever we are out or in bed (except for the bedroom). We recently had some of the sensors updated to some which will not fire up if the cats stroll about, and which seem to work very well. The box outside also has flashing blue lights to indicate that it is armed.
We also have two Ring cameras with lights round the back for good measure. Also interesting to see where the cats go at night!

The flashing blue lights should be flashing all the time otherwise a potential burglar would know when the alarm is armed or not just by looking for the blue lights.

 

[JBR]

The flashing blue lights should be flashing all the time otherwise a potential burglar would know when the alarm is armed or not just by looking for the blue lights.

I'm sure you're right and that does make sense. To be honest, I haven't looked at it when the system isn't armed, but I'll have a look when I next go out without arming it.