Security cameras are an effective way to secure a home and lend peace of mind to homeowners and their families, as they monitor the areas around their property at all times. Not only do they deter potential theft, vandalism, and burglary, but they can also provide evidence in the event that a crime occurs, which can then be forwarded to law enforcement to help apprehend the individuals responsible. Security cameras are also useful in less dire circumstances as well; for example, you can monitor pets with a security camera even while you are away from the home. Since modern security camera systems are also wi-fi capable, you can access them remotely with a smartphone or computer to ensure all is well even when you are on vacation.
Why install a security camera?
The number one benefit of installing a security camera is to discourage crimes before they occur. Package thieves, or “porch pirates” as they are known colloquially are a nuisance all over the country, and over 49 million Americans have had at least one package stolen over the prior year. Thieves are less likely to steal a package if they know a camera is trained on them, with only 19% of respondents in that same survey reporting a package theft while also having a security camera. In the event that a theft does occur, it will be much easier for law enforcement to track down the thieves. Security cameras can also be a public service, as they could catch the full story of incidental occurrences in the area, like traffic collisions or criminal activity that might have otherwise gone undetected.
The modern benefits of security cameras
Security cameras have come a long way from the days of recording to CCTV or videotape. Wi-fi enabled cameras can upload video to the cloud automatically, which means that criminals will not simply be able to disable the camera or take the footage with them if they are discovered; once they’re caught, they’re caught. You can also monitor wi-fi enabled cameras from anywhere in the world through a phone app, and have cameras alert you automatically if they sense motion when you are away from the home. Modern cameras are also light and easy to mount, and may require much less drilling or wiring than older models.
Drawbacks
There are some potential drawbacks of security cameras, some of which can be worked around.
- Reliant on Internet access: Although security cameras can re-establish their connections when power is lost, this is also dependent on your wi-fi router and Internet connection. If a power surge causes an error with your router or your Internet connection goes down entirely, for example, the cameras may not function until the problem is resolved.
- Electricity is still required: Security cameras do require power, and the power needs to be done in a secure manner where it is not feasible for a criminal to simply disconnect it. Penny Electric offers services to ensure your security cameras have power, including running additional receptacles if needed.
- Not all crimes will be prevented or solved: Even though cameras are a great deterrent to crime, as noted thefts still do occur to a degree even with their presence, and depending on the quality and nature of the footage it may not always be useful to the police (if it doesn’t show the suspect’s face, it may not always lead to an arrest, for example.)
Conclusion
Security cameras are a great investment in your home that can easily pay for themselves if they deter even a single criminal act. Modern cameras are also extremely user-friendly to monitor through iPhone and Android apps, and can provide additional peace of mind even when you are away from the home. Penny Electric has the expertise to help you mount and power your desired security system, and if you have any questions about best practices or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to reach out for a consultation.
