Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Practice Exam

What is one of the primary purposes of lighting within the CPTED model?

1. To create ambiance

2. Illumination of human activity

3. Energy efficiency

4. To reduce maintenance costs

The correct answer is: Illumination of human activity

In the context of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), one of the primary purposes of lighting is to facilitate the illumination of human activity. Adequate lighting serves to increase visibility in public and private spaces, allowing potential criminals to be more easily observed, which can deter criminal behavior. By ensuring that areas are well-lit, the presence of people and their activities becomes more apparent, thereby enhancing surveillance both by individuals and through potential security systems. This visibility creates a safer environment, as it reduces the likelihood of illicit activities occurring unnoticed. While creating ambiance may enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space, it is not a primary goal within the CPTED framework. Energy efficiency and reducing maintenance costs are important factors in any facility management plan, but they do not directly address the goal of deterring crime through environmental design. Thus, the illumination of human activity is a crucial aspect of creating safer environments within the CPTED model.