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Security Cameras: Do’s & Don’ts
Security cameras help to protect homes, businesses and various properties from burglaries, vandalism and more. Unfortunately, if they are not installed properly, they can do more harm than good. Before you invest and install a video surveillance system on your property, review these security camera do’s and don’ts.
DO:
- Place the camera where the roof or ceiling meets the wall.
This spot naturally shields the camera from the elements, and it can usually give you the widest angle of viewing. - Protect your cameras from weather, tampering, and vandalism.
Depending on your security cameras location, you may need to invest in a weatherproof casing to shield it from environmental conditions. Also, be sure to mount your cameras out of reach and with a protective plate to prevent criminals from tampering, disabling, or damaging your equipment. - Securely mount your surveillance cameras.
Be sure that your cameras don’t shake or wiggle if walking or other movement sends vibrations to the wall. This instability could distort the images that your camera is transmitting and could potentially cause damage to your cameras. You may need additional mounting brackets or equipment to ensure your cameras are securely mounted. - Place cameras in heavily-trafficked or shrub-heavy locations.
Because bushes provide cover for intruders, having a camera monitor these potential hiding spots will improve your surveillance. You also want to have eyes on areas with heavy traffic such as walkways or gates. - Set your base unit in your attic.
This is often the most convenient spot for all of your cameras’ wiring to originate from. It also minimizes the need to string cables up and down walls if they can be run on the insides of your eaves under your roofline.
DON’T:
- Just install a camera in an area that won’t be well-lit at night.
If you want surveillance around the clock, be sure that your security cameras have night vision or an infrared setting or lens that works in low light. For outdoor cameras, pair your cameras with exterior lighting with motions sensors if possible. - Attach a camera to a gutter.
This is always a bad idea. Despite being high up and out of reach, the camera is completely exposed to the weather and its weight will put undue stress on your guttering system. - Limit your cameras to just your front door.
You should be monitoring all areas where criminals can potentially gain access. Install surveillance cameras near your back doors, side entrances, and sliding glass entryways. You may want to consider a security camera at the top of your basement stairs in case someone gains access to your basement. - Place a camera right above a basement window.
This location leaves your camera within reach to be disabled or vandalized. Instead, mount a camera under the eaves or even a second-story roofline and direct the lens toward the basement window. - Assume wireless means “completely wireless.”
This is not always the case. Even if your surveillance system operates using wireless signals, each camera and your base unit will still need to be plugged into a power source.
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Your security is our priority! If you need help choosing the best security cameras for you, feel free to browse our selection online at SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 to speak with a representative directly.
Why You Should Invest In Business Surveillance Systems
As the New Year approaches, you may resolve to invest in a better business security camera system. Increasing your security measures can provide numerous benefits and will likely pay off in the long run. Here are a few ways a security system can help improve your business.
- Increase Customer And Business Safety
The presence of security cameras not only helps to deter burglars from targeting your business, but it can also bring peace of mind to your customers and employees.
- Reduce False Claims
There have been instances where employees fake an injury to claim worker’s comp, as well as customers who may make false claims against the business or employees. Security cameras can prevent these instances or provide evidence to refute these claims.
- Minimize Employee Theft
Security cameras and surveillance can positively influence behavior, resulting in employees complying with company policies.
- Avoid Loitering Around Premises
You not only want to secure the inside of your business, but protecting the perimeter is just as important. Loitering may send the wrong message to your customers, and may negatively affect your business.
- Prevent Site Littering
Aside from loitering, litter scattered around your business can damage the business reputation. You want to maintain an appealing look for your customers, and excessive litter can be detrimental.
- Replace Full-Time Security Guards
Rather than having a security guard on the grounds, you can actively monitor your premises from within or remotely.
- Track Business Traffic
Keeping track of your business traffic can improve your business success. You can identify the busiest hours and adjust your staffing accordingly. It may also give you insight to the most efficient business hours for your location.
- Tie multiple locations into one surveillance system.
If you have more than one location to monitor, an advanced security system will allow you to connect the different security systems. That way, you may be able to remotely monitor all sites from one app or system.
If you need help finding the right security camera system for your business, feel free to visit us online at SecurityCamExpert.com or call 888-203-6294 to speak with a representative. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Take Your Security Seriously
Protecting our families, homes, and valuables is a top priority. Home and business security systems aim to give you peace of mind when it comes to intruders, however, not all properties are created equal. A security system tailored to your specific needs is a smarter option. Aside from consulting with Security Cam Experts, you should also take note of these statistics and security tips.
Statistics
- According to the FBI, in 2014, there were 1,729,806 burglaries in the United States.
- Of those burglaries, 73.2% were residential burglaries.
- Of these residential burglaries, nearly 28% occurred during the day while over half happened at night.
- Top targets include women living alone or wealthy senior citizens.
- Burglars also choose targets by the type of car you drive, what neighborhood you live in, the size of the home, or signs that a home is unoccupied.
Prevention Tips
- Never open your door to strangers or solicitors. Remember that delivery persons need not step into your home to make a delivery.
- Never rely on a chain-latch as a barrier to partially open the door. With enough force, it can easily be broken.
- If you don’t have one already, install a peephole and always use it to see who is at your door before opening it.
- Lock all doors, windows, and garages at all times. This helps to prevent unwanted intruders from simply walking through an unlocked entrance.
- Choose heavy duty locks and use four three-inch screws to secure heavy duty lock strike plates in the door frames.
- See something, say something. If you notice any suspicious stranger activity, call the police.
- Have a family meeting in regards to home security plans so that everyone is on the same page.
Having something to protect you is better than nothing, which is why even a simple dummy camera can make a difference. But if you can afford it, investing in surveillance systems and home alarm systems can be a great benefit and put some of your worries at ease. If you have any questions or want to shop a wide variety of affordable security cameras and equipment, please call 888-203-6294 or visit SecurityCamExpert.com today!
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