Welcome to the FOX CT Local experts page featuring advice, tips, and information about the latest products and technologies available for your home. This month we feature outdoor lighting, which when properly designed provides beauty, usefulness, safety and security. For help, we've turned to Michael Gotowala from Preferred Properties Landscaping in Cheshire, CT. Michael has over 24 years of experience in residential design build landscaping and can assist with questions about masonry, gardening, patios, lighting, pools and, of course, landscape design. Questions you should consider about nighttime lighting, learn more from Preferred Properties.

"With proper lighting, you can see out into the yard anytime of night," Michael says. "It's good, too, if you have pets and animals that you may want to keep an eye on. Safety and security are important when you don't expect it. Preparation is key. Covering the outside deters intruders and watchers from your home. Live on a dark street? Night lighting could be the answer."

"A home automation security expert had explained to me some of the best features to add to your home security. The first is a home automation module which links all the features of your home onto one central system. You would be provided with a remote that allows you to enable features as you move through your home. How cool. Hear a sound, grab the remote, and begin to monitor your door, windows, basement entrances and exits. You can then move freely throughout the house."

"Second is the capability of video monitoring. For a reasonable price, home surveillance can be an emotional relief. Video monitoring and capture recording is now available for a modest price. Technology is awesome. You can now go as far as watching your home and premise on the internet from anywhere." "Third is the ability to integrate night lighting and outdoor lighting themes onto your hand held remote. Hear something out back? Grab your remote, double click and all the tree lights go on outside. Seem far fetched? CSI MIAMI style. Yes, this is possible."

Experience peace of mind when arriving home by seeing your house fully illuminated as you pull into your driveway. With controlscape automation, this can be activated with the touch of a fingertip. Your night lights can turn off at 10:00 pm and a moment later your motion detectors are set. The stars and your imagination are your only limits. Light up your San Juan Pool from Preferred Properties. Click here to learn how.