How to Install an Outdoor Security System

Decide on the area of the front or back yard that you want to illuminate should any intrusion take place. Dig a half-foot hole in the ground.

Place the bottom of the pole attached to one of the solar-powered motion-sensor-activated outdoor lights into the hole. Fold a bath towel in half. Place the bath towel on top of the light. Pound the pole an additional foot into the ground, using a soft mallet.

Open the side or bottom panel lid on the light. If there is a screw on the lid, loosen the screw first, using a Phillips jeweler's screwdriver. Open or remove the lid.

Turn the control knobs or slide the selector switches inside the control panel compartment to set the light to activate itself when dusk comes, to be ready to illuminate immediately upon the detection of any movement passing in front of its sensor and to keep the floodlight on for 15 seconds before going out. The exact procedure for making this arrangement will vary depending on the make and manufacturer of the light.

Close the lid or place the lid back on. Tighten the screw the lid, if there is one. Repeat this procedure at other locations on the grounds outside the house with additional motion-sensor-activated outdoor security lights.