*It only costs pennies a month to turn on your porch or front door lights at night. Sufficient lighting is the easiest and most effective deterrent against criminal mischief. Keep in mind that Halloween is approaching -- if you do not want any trick-or-treaters ringing your doorbell, this would be the one night to leave your light off (until 10pm or so). Of course, use your peephole or sidelight before you open the door, and if you do not feel comfortable, DON'T OPEN YOUR DOOR!