The task is to be safe, not just to feel safe. This means that we need effective and efficient lighting. Visibility is the goal. We want to be able to see well, rather than lighting the criminal's way. This goal exists for us at home, on the streets, in parking lots, at work, wherever.
Good lighting can be a help, poor lighting always compromises safety.
Most crime actually occurs during the day, or inside buildings. However, we want the feeling and the reality of being safe outside at night. That does not mean putting in the brightest light we can find, blinding everyone in the area, creating light trespass, and lighting up the sky. Lighting by itself does not insure safety. Quality lighting rather than poor lighting is essential for any real security.