Think Twice Before Turning Off Your Porch Light, Michigan

You should always leave your porch light on at night.

One reason is that a lot of us get deliveries late at night. Sure, leaving your porch light on makes your packages more visible to thieves, but it also helps the delivery drivers actually see where they’re dropping stuff off.

If you’re worried about wildlife wandering onto your porch, a motion light can help with that, too! Animals like raccoons, deer, or stray cats are often startled by sudden light and will usually take off when it clicks on.

While those are just a couple of examples of why you should leave your porch light on, there is one main reason—and it’s all about your safety.

The Main Reason You Should Never Turn Off Your Porch Light at Night

The main reason you should always leave your porch light on is to deter potential burglars or trespassers. A porch light typically indicates that someone is home, making it harder for burglars to see clearly into your house. It’s much easier for a criminal to look inside when it’s dark.

Experts say that using a motion light is a great way to keep thieves from lurking around your house. However, having a light that stays on all night is an even better option.

If you're concerned about your energy bill, don’t be.

Leaving your porch light on all night won’t cost you much at all. Seriously, running a porch light—especially with an LED bulb—uses barely any energy.