Enhanced Home Security with Security Cameras
According to the Uniform Crime Reporting Program Crime Clock, there is a burglary in the US every 14.6 seconds. Given that in nearly 84% of burglaries the perpetrator gains entry into the home or residence, the addition of security cameras offers the victim another opportunity to catch the perpetrator even if he/she escapes initially.
The average electronic security system is comprised of a keypad, control panel, and sensors. These sensors are generally placed at entryways such as doors and windows. Some systems set off alarms that are audible in the residence when triggered while others are connected to service centers and police dispatch locations. These types of security systems have proven to be effective at deterring burglars, especially when combined with warning decals or cautionary yard signs. However there are consumers who doubt their effectiveness. As a result, industry trends suggest that more homeowners have begun to turn to security providers that also offer video surveillance services. In fact, the overall global surveillance market is forecasted to have grown by 3 percent in 2009. Further, some homeowners will bypass professional security service providers entirely and will opt for do-it-yourself home security kits that include wireless window and motion sensors as well as video surveillance capabilities.
The key to an effective video surveillance and home security system requires more than just the installation of a security camera and an alarm. First, the security camera is pointless if it is not also connected to a digital video recorder (DVR). Whithout a DVR, the owner would not be able record the perpetrator committing a burglary and therefore have no evidence to present to the authorities. Given that in 2005 an estimated 62.4 percent of residential burglaries occur during the workday between 6am.m. and 6 p.m., the likelihood of a working homeowner catching a perpetrator in action is very low. Further, even if one were to see the burglar in the act there would be no recorded video evidence of the crime without the use of DVR technology. Fortunately technological advances allow for both recorded video surveillance as well as real-time video monitoring that can either be linked to a professional monitoring center or a web based interface that enables users to connect to a live video surveillance feed online from any remote location.
Another factor to consider when installing a home security camera systems is the placement of the cameras. If cameras are not positioned properly then the system is rendered ineffective. Thieves could easily disable or hide from the security camera. In order to ensure optimal performance, security cameras should be placed in an elevated location that is either out of sight or out of reach for potential burglars. When installing security cameras make sure the location allows for the widest line of sight. Also keep in mind locations burglars would most likely choose to break in. A survey done in Pennsylvania indicated that 81 percent of residential burglaries occurred through the first floor, 56 percent of residential burglars entered through the front or back door. Additionally, it is important that installed cameras are equipped with decent infrared sensors. This will enable the cameras to be effective during the night or in poorly lit areas.
The implementation of video surveillance is undoubtedly the next step in home security. Not only are security cameras outstanding tools that allow for live video monitoring and recording, but they have also proven useful to number of police and insurance investigations.