Subtract the scattered light loss of 25 to 30 percent and you have a light that wastes almost two-thirds of the energy it uses. Companies, towns and individuals who still use mercury-vapor lights are losing about 65 cents of every dollar they spend on the energy to light them. Of course many of us believe, or used to believe, that all these lights helped prevent crime. It s too bad that it hasn t worked out that way. Crime has increased in areas where lights were added.
Some people believe that lighting actually attracts criminals.
One statistic quoted by New York City s Street and Highway Lighting Bureau asserts that 98 percent of its streets are not illuminated to minimum standards. Because lights give us a false sense of security, criminals can see their victims better, lights provide shadows for them to lurk in, and buildings and houses that are well-lit almost scream out that there is something valuable here. A good police officer will tell you that if someone wants to commit a crime, they will attempt it regardless of the obstacles. We do need good lighting for safe travel, whether it be in a car or on foot. Shielded lights do the best job in this area.