SPOKANE, Wash. — The City of Spokane launched a program this year that provides free solar-powered motion-detecting lights to help residents combat property crime as summer approaches.
The Spokane Safe and Bright Residential Light Program offers property owners free outdoor lights designed for alleyways, front porches and other poorly lit areas around homes. The program began in March and uses American Rescue Plan Act funds the city received during the pandemic.
Property crime typically increases during summer months, according to data cited by Spokane police. The department says simple measures like good exterior lighting can help keep homes safer.
“The purpose is to help our community at large and help light up your neighborhoods. We know that some places are dark and that it is just something as simple as lighting up that can make a tremendous difference,” said Erin Hut, communications director with the City of Spokane.
To qualify for the program, residents must live within Spokane city limits and own their property. Renters can still receive lights, but their landlords must submit the request on their behalf.
The application process requires creating an account with the city and filling out a form available on the city website. Those who are interested in the program can also contact the city of Spokane at 3-1-1 (or 509.755.2489 if calling outside the City) to be directed to the online form.
Spokane police have worked with the city over recent months to promote the program in neighborhoods experiencing crime spikes. Officers distribute flyers about the lighting program in these targeted areas.
The lights operate on crime prevention through environmental design principles, Hut explained.
“There are ways that you can initiate small infrastructure improvements that can really make a big difference in preventing theft, or property damage… whatever it may be,” Hut said.
Police say most thieves rely on darkness to avoid detection. When motion-activated lights turn on, they put potential criminals in the spotlight, often causing them to reconsider their actions and leave the area.
The city initially ordered 1,000 lights for the program, but all were claimed within the first day. Officials then purchased 6,500 additional lights, with thousands still available for residents.
Beyond lighting, Spokane police recommend several other strategies to prevent property crime:
Install alarm systems and surveillance camerasMake security cameras visible to deter potential thievesKeep toys, tools and lawn equipment out of sight to reduce temptation
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