How to Set Lights and Siren to Turn On When Motion is Detected

You can set your Swann standalone camera to automatically turn on its spotlight or siren when motion is detected using the Swann Security app. This feature helps deter intruders, improve visibility, and enhance real-time security alerts. It applies to Swann standalone cameras that support light and siren controls.

Want to do these on your recorder's add-on camera? Follow this article instead

Common Questions / Variations

• How do I turn on the spotlight when motion is detected?
• How do I enable the siren on motion for my Swann camera?
• Can my Swann camera lights or siren activate automatically?

Step-by-step Guide

Short answer:
You need to confirm motion detection is set up correctly, then enable Light On Motion and/or Siren On Motion in the camera’s Modes settings.

Make Sure Motion Detection Is Enabled

Your camera must be properly configured to detect motion before the light or siren can trigger.

1. Open the Swann Security app
2. Select your standalone camera
3. Verify that motion detection is enabled (not 0 or OFF) and detection area is set

For detailed instructions, visit this article

Turn On “Light On Motion” or “Siren On Motion”

Choose your phone type:

Android iOS 

In Swann Security app, choose Modes then tap

Choose a camera that you want to configure.

Choose a Mode to configure.

Toggle the switch on/off for the deterrent feature (light, siren, or enforcer lights) you want to configure.

Once toggled ON, set a duration

NOTE: Duration applies to all modes.

Don't forget to tap or Back to go back and save the settings.

Swipe left or right to navigate

In Swann Security app, choose Modes then Edit Modes

Choose a camera that you want to configure.

Choose a Mode to configure.

Toggle the switch on/off for the deterrent feature (light, siren, or enforcer lights) you want to configure.

Once toggled ON, set a duration

NOTE: Duration applies to all modes.

Don't forget to tap Edit Modes to go back and save the settings.

Swipe left or right to navigate

Why It Matters

Automatically activating lights or a siren when motion is detected helps deter unwanted activity, improves night-time visibility, and provides immediate feedback that your security system is responding. This feature is especially useful for monitoring entry points, yards, and low-light areas.

Related Scenarios or Questions

Summary & Next Steps

To turn on your Swann camera’s lights or siren when motion is detected, first confirm motion detection is set up correctly, then enable the appropriate options in each Mode within the Swann Security app. For more control and customization, review Swann’s detailed guides on motion detection and Modes configuration.