Landscaping for security

If you do use floodlights, don't point them away from the house; the glare can actually provide cover for an intruder by temporarily blinding you as you approach. Instead, direct them downward from the eaves or upward from the ground-toward a house wall, for instance.

Use photoelectric cells-or a timer to turn on outdoor lights at dusk.

You can also install infrared security lights (available at home building centers) that trigger floodlights when they detect body heat and movement. Although such systems can be expensive, the lights come on only when necessary; you'll save some on energy bills. If animals roam your property, adjust beams several feet above the ground so the animals don't activate the lights.

Every little thing you do can help Dogs, crunchy gravel paths to magnify the noise of foot traffic, and wind chimes over windows all reduce your chances of becoming a victim. Also, use good security sense: lock back and side gates (it's worth the extra trouble of making special arrangements with maintenance companies and gardeners, if necessary), and start a neighborhood watch program, if you haven't already.

Families in one burglary-plagued Portland neighborhood got together to help solve the problem: they landscaped for better security, following guidelines similar to ones presented here. Then they pitched in to buy a wood chipper for the mass of prunings that resulted.