Cutting light wires

[W Lewis 11]

This is my 14th year for a light display.  This year I had someone come on my property after the show went off and cut the wires on my lights.  This happened 7 times and each time there were numerous cuts (over the season about 50 cuts).  Any suggestions how I can stop this next year.  My display area covers about 6 acres. 

[drkness 61]

Surveillance cameras to catch them.  (Including signage saying you have cameras)  

I'd get some led spot/flood lights and place throughout your display that are on timers to come on after your show goes off leaving the property lit up. Could also add a couple motion  Detection lights as well. 

[babyantidormi25 212]

I have the same problem, my neighbors cut my lights, I suggest getting a night vision camera don't make it obvious that you are trying to catch them. Once you get them bring it up to the police and they will be forced to bay for damage caused to your property, I also suggest having the things they didn't like back on and people always come back so you will catch them, go to gander mountain and get a wireless night vision camera.

 

 

[W Lewis 11]

Thanks for the info.  We had thought about cameras, but I also like the idea of leaving some flood lights on.  I will definitely be better prepared next year for the thugs!!!

[timpwk 8]

I would install the lights.  These days when you catch people it sometimes makes it worse........................

[drkness 61]

I had to install cameras, from people vandalizing my Christmas displays to people letting their dog crap in our yard and they not pick it up. It has solved many issues. 

I will be leaving spot lights on next year after the show since it will finally be the debut of it, I'm taking no chances. 

[Rob Herronen -RGS RR of NC 12]

I know it's been a couple months now, but I figure I might as well chime in before next Christmas season starts.

I would do the following if I had a large display:

1) Install flood lights to light up key areas where people might enter the display, or hide in the shadows;

2) Install motion lights in other areas to add more light where necessary;

3) Install a couple cameras.  Some cameras have decent night vision but if the area is lit with flood lamps it will be much clearer an image and you can see farther from the camera.  Also, those motion lights coming on will be sure to trigger cameras.

Some people mentioned using those trail cameras but I worry those are all self-contained and could be stolen without any proof who did it whereas a wireless camera transmitting to a base station inside means the video is kept inside even if the camera is stolen or damaged.  Wired CCTV cameras with a DVR will give the best image and longest recording but those cost more and require more work to install.  However, properly installed cameras can make them all-season security.

Just my $0.02.

[W Lewis 11]

Thanks for your response.  I am planning to incorporate all of the above in my display this year.  Too bad we have to implement security devices for our light shows.

[Donte 17]

German Shepherd I have 11 acres works great.

[Big J Illinois 479]

S.W., Glock ,Winchester or Springfeild Armory....

[Christmas on the Farm 34]

My display covers only about 1.5 acres but I use a couple LED floods on after the show.  Any perpetrators would probably be too far away from the camera to get an ID.