A system for generating a visual home exterior alert in response to a home alarm, typically audio, including a light switch override portion operationally connected to a light switch for controlling outside lighting, and a listening portion positioned to detect an alarm sound. Upon detection of a predetermined alarm sound, the listening portion is actuated to send an enabling signal to the light switch override portion. Upon receipt of the enabling signal, the light switch override portion sequentially energizes and deenergizes the outside lighting in a predetermined pattern.