SEVERAL TECHNIQUES Security lighting deters burglars DARKNESS JS the criminal’s best aily. Security experts agree, how- ever, that some simple home lighting techniques can be used to help thwart potential in- truders. Hundreds of thousands of homes are burglarized each year, Given a choice, burglars prefer to strike when the house is darkened and unoccupied. By using your existing indoor and outdoor lights — and possibly installing some addi- tional fixtures — you can significantly increase the securi- ty of your home. Indoor lighting Several lighting techniques can make your home appear oc- cupied even when nobody is home. Timing devices make it possible to turn lamps on and off in different rooms at times when occupants would be most likely to use them. This creates an illusion of movement within the house and may deter would-be thieves. Variable timers succeed better than inexpensive or routine timers. Their ability to turn lights on and off in random patterns serves as a more con- vincing deterrent . than . those that click lights on and off ona rigid schedule. Lamp positioning is also im- portant. Placing lamps against walls and away from windows will allow people to see in. Lamps placed against windows will obscure the view into a room and make interior obser- vation more difficult. Outdoor lighting While indoor lighting can reduce the risk of theft, it should be complemented by outdoor devices. Strategically- placed lights connected to SECURITY LIGHTING — inexpensive outdoor fixtures con- tribute to home safety while on vacation. Lights under the eaves or on the wall around the garage, front door and patio illuminate en- trances and enable neighbors to detect prowlers. Floodlights across the garden and postlights along the driveway illuminate approaches and prevent burglars escaping unseen. Lights around trees and in the shrubbery eliminate potential hiding places. timers can brighten entrances at night and illuminate potential hiding places in the garden or yard. For maximum effectiveness, place spotlights and floodlights under eaves or close to walls and direct them towards entry points. Individually light garages, patios, greenhouses, tool sheds and other separate buildings. Also turn the porch light on at night. Landscape lighting around the perimeter of the garden can also reduce the chances of burglars escaping unseen. In- stall floodlights in trees and bushes or postlights along the driveway to illuminate the ap- proach to your home. In addition, keep bushes trimmed to a height of three feet to eliminate convenient hiding places. Remember to use outdoor lighting regularly when you are home or you will tip off alert burglars to your absence. Home security lighting is a very cost-effective crime prevention practice. Leaving four 55-watt bulbs burning for four hours costs less than a dime in most parts of the coun- try. Security lighting is much like locks or an alarm. They are valuable only if you use them. Many people have security lighting fixtures in place but don’t utilize them effectively. 25 - Friday, June 12, 1987 - North Shore News These plants can grow in shady spots HERE ARE two great plants which, given a reasonable amount of assistance, will grow in those desolate, shady areas of the garden. The astifbe can look as good in the shade as it does in the sun. With light, delicate plumes of scented red, white or pink flowers held two to three feet above the ground, it would be sure to brighten up any shady spot. The foliage too has its charm; the deeply divided leaves in green to bronze with saw toothed edges can create a fern-like mass when these plants are used a9 a ground cover. ‘ This fine textured appearance is also useful in achieving the feeling of depth in the garden as fine tex- tures tend to create the impression of distance. In order to get the most from the astilbe, prepare the area to be planted with a humus-rich topsoil. If the soil on site can be worked, try cultivating in a good portion of compost or mushroom manure. The addition of bonemeal is an excellent method of promoting speedy root development and an abundant flower display. Watering is a must, for the astilbe is much over the garden gate like the primula in that it requires cool, damp roots throughout the growing season. See Keep Page 26 LABOUR ON... © drapes © slip covers e reupholstery * comforters & bedspreads © custom built furniture Have you seen these wood-boring pests in your home? / “ Wingless Adult Carpenter Ant Winged Reproductive Carpenter Ant For Free inspection Call: ¢ EFFECTIVE PEST CONTROL 276-0079 Serving the Lower Mainland