How can lighting be optimized for enhancing safety?

Using bright, consistent lighting in areas where crime might occur is essential for enhancing safety. Well-lit environments increase visibility, making it harder for potential offenders to conceal their actions and intentions. Bright lighting helps to deter criminal behavior by increasing the chances of detection, either by witnesses or by surveillance systems. Moreover, consistent lighting reduces shadows where individuals might hide or engage in illicit activities, creating a sense of safety for community members. In addition to deterring crime, effective lighting can also promote natural surveillance, encouraging more people to be present and engaged in the area, further enhancing safety.

The other options are less effective in promoting safety. Dim lighting can create an inviting ambiance but fails to provide the necessary visibility to deter crime. Focusing solely on residential areas neglects public spaces and transit areas where crime might also occur. Similarly, installing colored lights may be aesthetically pleasing but does not contribute to improving visibility or safety in the same way that bright, well-placed lighting does.