Lighting, though often overlooked, is one of the most effective sources of security.
In fact, some anthropologists believe that the safety afforded humans when we harnessed fire may have given us protection from nighttime predators which, in turn, allowed us to use our free time to develop language and important early technology.
Even today, we have an instinctive aversion to entering a dark space.
This ancient disposition still has merit.
As the days shorten during the winter months, lighting becomes more vital to home security.
Most of us will arrive home in the dark and leave the house before the sun comes up.
Justified environmental concerns make the idea of leaving a light on all day seem rather irresponsible.
Technology offers some excellent solutions.
The first is a very old technology: timer-operated on and off switches.
Consider installing some of these on table lamps so that you come home to a lit house rather than one plunged into darkness.
Set the timer to go on shortly after sundown so that the house looks occupied to any passersby.
Make certain to have motion-detector operated lighting outside your home.
It's so cheap and easy to install now that there's no reason not to have it.
Not only will it provide for your own security, but it will prevent welcome visitors from having to navigate your yard in the dark.
You should definitely consider a monitored alarm system for your home.
They're incredibly affordable and, during the winter, the opportunities for thieves to operate under the cover of darkness increase exponentially.
Alarms are the single most effective deterrent device you can install on your home.
Many home alarm systems integrate features such as timed lighting, remote control and the ability to include out buildings within their protective perimeter.
Having your garage availed of the same security as is your home is a great benefit and being able to turn off the alarm before you enter the house a great convenience.
These alarm systems offer far more benefits than intrusion detection.
Many of the better models have carbon monoxide and fire detectors, absolutely vital equipment during the winter months when home heating is required.
Passive fire detectors are a minimum requirement for any home but a system that alerts the monitoring service ensures that fire personnel are contacted with all possible haste.
Anyone who has suffered a house fire knows that seconds are vital in these situations.
Still, the most simple measure you can take is lighting up your world.
The reason entering a dark house is a bit scary, even when it's your own, is rooted in the abilities that enable us to survive a dangerous world.
Timers are wonderful but, with a monitored system, not only are the lights able to be turned on well in advance of your arrival, there are people making sure that your home and possessions are secure.
A bright and warm home is one of the most wonderful things in the dark and cold months of winter.