ABSTRACT
The role of lighting in crime prevention and security has been a close-knit relationship. There have been some excellent books and documents published on lighting and security, most notably by the Illumination Engineering Society of North America and the Guideline on Security Lighting for People, Property, and Public Spaces (IESNA G-1–03 March 2003), and the National Crime Prevention Institute handout on Security Lighting and The Outdoor Lighting Pattern Book (1996). I have conducted lighting analysis on numerous properties, especially residential and commercial properties. Most all of the publications to date take a deterministic view that lighting prevents or stops crime. It is my opinion and experience that this is incorrect. Lighting is neutral regarding changing or preventing behavior (see Figure 22.1). It is similar to CCTV. CCTV does not stop crime but can be effective if applied in the proper way to altering how persons perceive their space. Lighting does not stop you from obtaining entry, as a door or gate would prevent intrusion. Lighting does not call the police or scream for assistance. Lighting provides choice.
