Many homeowners use outdoor lighting to keep wild animals like raccoons, skunks and possums away. And, for a while, the lighting does work.

But as wild animals get acclimated to their surroundings, they quickly get used to the lights.

To prevent wildlife from rummaging around our homes, the best way is to eliminate food sources. Clamp down trash can lids and place recycling bins out in the morning.

And if you do use lighting, go with the motion-sensing variety. The sudden flood of light can still be enough to warn wild animals to stay away.