The point is that light always creates shadow and the bad boys love shadows because they create a brilliant place to hide; the brighter the light the darker the shadow.

With that in mind, here are some security lighting guidelines to help you thwart the lurkers rather than play into their hands:

• Anything brighter than 150 watts is both unnecessary and counterproductive

• Direct the beam down into your grounds, aim it high and what you are actually doing is casting shadows exactly where intruders find them most useful – on the ground around your house

• Aim for the most vertical beam you can manage; 22 degrees from vertical is optimum

• Consider using LED spotlights for their more directional light.

Do remember to consider other measures you can take, garden lighting is just one aspect of your home’s security. It has to be said that the number one security measure is to ensure your doors and windows have good security locks – and that you use them!

If you already have floodlights, double check their installation now. If you don’t have floodlights – it might be a good idea to get some…