Just like that, winter has come.

Improved security

Improved visibility and safety

Increased aesthetics and property value

Improved Security

Is there any truth to the claim that good outdoor lighting reduces crime? Swiss journal MDPI notes that improved lighting and crime saw a 20 percent decrease was seen in crime rates over various studies. They also found that the financial savings from the reduced criminal activity far exceeded the price of the improved lighting.

Does this mean that we should all go and buy the brightest, most intense fixtures possible?

Not exactly! Appropriate lighting is just as important as good lighting. Security lighting with timers, dimmers, dusk-to-dawn activation, and motion sensors are more effective at deterrence, friendlier to your neighbours, and reduce light pollution. In these situations, it’s advisable to reach out to a professional for advice; they could save you from a blinding headache (your neighbours will thank you!)

Improved visibility and safety

Trips, falls, and other injuries become more difficult to prevent in the winter, especially when it’s dark. Outdoor lighting enhances your ability to navigate property, safely. Having well-lit walkways, recreational areas, and entryways provide you and those around you with peace of mind, knowing that obstacles can be identified and avoided without risk.

Increased aesthetics and perceived value

Not only does modern lighting on properties boost curb appeal, it also has been shown to boost property value! Well-thought-out and planned lighting give impressions of safety and attention to detail – something that buyers (and lookie-loos!) take note of.

Outdoor lighting also allows you to personalize your space. Installing your lights strategically to highlight features, landscaping, or other unique aspects of your property can create an attractive atmosphere for yourself and others alike.

Wrapping up!

Outdoor lighting might not be the first thing you shop for when winter hits, but its utility will surprise you! Those above were just a handful of the benefits of good outdoor lighting, and while those topics just covered security, safety, and aesthetics, it’s safe to say that we're just getting started!

So, please, buy that shovel you need, and get those winter tires installed! But, once you’re back from your errands, it might be worth taking note of the pitch-black spot on your walkway to the house, or somewhere else you can improve an outdoor space with just a little effort. The benefits are immediate!

If you need a hand on where to start, including what to buy, where to install it, or someone to install it for you, reaching out to the experts at Eco Lighting Solutions can get you started and on your way.

Click here to get in touch with us at ecolighting.ca. We look forward to hearing from you! 

Fotios SA, Robbins CJ, Farrall S. The Effect of Lighting on Crime Counts. Energies. 2021; 14(14):4099. https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144099 https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/14/14/4099