If you are going out of town, even over night, setting a timer on lights gives the impression that there is someone in the house (and most burglars prefer to target unoccupied homes). Those timers are really nice in the winter months, too. You can set them to turn lights on before you get back home; that way you're walking into an already well-lit house. That really adds a feeling of warmth and security when you come home each evening.

Have you ever felt nervous after hearing a strange noise out in your yard? Exterior flood lights will shed some light on that view, and if you use a motion detector that can really startle a would-be crook. Criminals usually don't like to be in the spotlight; they will more often than not be inspired to get out of your brightly lit yard! Even landscape lighting, though not as bright, will help illuminate your yard and prevent unwanted intruders from approaching your home.

Consider having a special switch (sometimes referred to as a "panic switch") installed inside your house, either in the master bedroom or in any location that is most convenient for you, so you can quickly and easily flip on exterior lights (whether or not they are not attached to a motion detector). Keeping your home and yard well lit is a very effective security measure.