Cutting Street Lights Could See a Rise in Crime. Solution: Pepper Spray

In London there are some councils that are turning off their street lights at particular times, while others have turned them off completely, as they continue struggling to balance their books.

According to the Commons transport committee chairwoman, this is a particularly concerning area as the financial pressures are forcing people to take steps that have the potential of putting the lives of other’s at risk, in addition to increasing the amount of car related injuries.

The AA president said that lighting can help to increase the safety for riders, pedestrians and drivers, as well as prevent street crime. He went on to say that pedestrians and cyclists are most at risk if they are on unlit streets.

While only a quarter of vehicles travel between the hours of 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. this is the time period that sees 40 percent of serious and fatal injuries.

As a result, the AA is urging councils to invest in cheaper lighting that is eco-friendly, instead of leaving people in the dark.

When it comes to the Buckinghamshire County Council, they have reportedly switched off 1,627 of their lights, which accounts for around five per cent of its total; however they insist that they haven’t put road safety at risk.

Of course, the solution for many pedestrians and cyclists is to invest in a canister of pepper spray. If they should find themselves on an unlit street, simply having this self defense canister close by will maintain their safety when they require it the most.

However, while you may own a spray canister, if you can it is always best to avoid walking or cycling down a street that doesn’t have any street lights. Remember, it’s vital that you stick to roads that are well lit and are busy that have other people and cars on. This way if you require help you can quickly grab someone’s attention.

But if you can’t avoid going down a dark street, then you should prepare yourself before going down it. In other words have your pepper spray in your hand with your finger over the trigger, so that you can instantly employ it if you are approached by someone, giving you the chance to run or cycle away for help.