Technology has made us feel much safer in our homes than ever before. Because of this, many ways exist to protect our homes, families, and belongings. Everything from anti-burglary alarms to full home surveillance is available today. But do security cameras deter crime in the real world? The answer is yes! A home security camera system can serve a double purpose for many homeowners. These systems act as both a deterrent and a recovery tool.
Burglars are less likely to hit property that has security systems in place. And if a break-in occurs the cameras can help aid in the arrest and recovery efforts. On their own, home cameras and residential security systems can help add an extra layer of protection for your property.
However, they are even better when used as part of a wider home security network. As US News highlighted, “Ultimately, home security cameras work best to protect your property when they’re integrated with a home security system. To save their batteries, wireless security cameras only start to record when they detect motion, which means they may not record everything you’d want them to.”
There are many benefits of integrating cameras into a full security system network. One is that they can be used along with all other security features. Cameras can begin recording as soon as any part of the system is triggered. Whether the motion detector, glass break sensor, or entry trigger is activated, the cameras start recording. This integration makes the entire system more practical and effective and strengthens your home defense bubble.
Theft, Robbery, Burglary: How Often Do They Happen?
To talk about home security cameras and home protection, it is essential to know the basic terms. Theft, robbers, and burglary get thrown around a lot, and many people at times use them interchangeably. However, they are not the same.
Theft refers to the act of taking someone’s property without force. An example is picking up a wallet and keeping it or reaching into a purse and pickpocketing someone. Robbery occurs when force or fear is used to take someone’s property from them. An example of this is holding someone at gunpoint and taking their money or possessions. Burglary is entering a structure with the direct and explicit intent of removing items or valuables. An example of this is someone breaking into a home to steal property, money, or other possessions.
How Many Burglaries Happen Every Year?
According to one report, in 2017, the FBI reported nearly 1.5 million burglaries with more than half involved in some form of forced entry. The report also went on to highlight that:
- There are more than 2.5 million burglaries now estimated to occur every year in the US.
- Every 25 seconds a break-in or attempted break-in occurs in the United States.
- Homes with no security cameras or security systems are three times more vulnerable.
- Nearly half of all homes in the US have no form of camera or security system installed.
- More than 80% of criminals say they take time to check if a home has a security system.
- One-third of burglars use the front door as the entry point during break-ins.
The answer to the question of do security cameras deter crime can be a bit complicated. But the short answer is yes, they do help protect homes and make them less appealing targets to would-be burglars. With this in mind and the grim facts regarding home break-ins and burglaries, action is needed. Let’s dive into the specifics of how home security cameras and integrated systems can help fight these trends.
Where is the Best Place to Put a Security Camera?
Cameras help deter and catch criminals and can protect any piece of property. A well-rounded home security system with properly-placed cameras can go a long way in protecting your home and family. But where you place your cameras, and what areas of the home you watch are also important. According to one set of statistics:
- 9% of burglars targeting a home enter through the garage door.
- 22% of break-ins are from the back door or back windows.
- 2% of burglars attempt to access second-floor entry points.
- 81% of home robberies are done through first-floor access points.
- 9% of burglars find entry through the basement.
- 23% of burglars choose a window as their point of entry.
Do security cameras deter crime? They do in many ways, and any homeowner can benefit from having cameras and security systems on-site. So, with this in mind, the following are some of the best locations to consider setting up a home security camera. Following these tips can help protect your home and cover common areas and potential entry points.
Ground-floor Entry
Most burglars are looking for quick and easy access. They will stick to the ground floor and will seek entry through windows and doors that are within easy reach.
Stairs or Hallways
Main entry points and areas that connect one room or area to another need cameras. These include areas such as central halls, stairways, and walkways.
Common Areas
Places you spend a lot of time or where expensive items are kept are hot spots as well. Cameras can protect against smash-and-grab break-in attempts.
Driveway
If you have a driveway, it is a key place for criminals to use as it often connects to the home. Cameras can cover these access points and hiding areas effectively.
Yard
Setting up cameras that capture views of the yard is also worth considering. Doing so will ensure burglars are caught coming in and leaving, so there is video evidence.
Second Floor
Upstairs bedrooms tend to be off the surveillance list due to privacy concerns. However, other areas should be monitored by at least one or two security cameras.
Basement
It is a less common entry point, but still worth covering to be on the safe side. Putting a camera in the basement helps cover as many possible entry points as possible.
Other Buildings
Garages are kind of an obvious place to secure, but so are tool sheds and any storage units or other structures that might provide cover for would-be burglars.
And as with any other system in the home, your unique needs and lifestyle will dictate what kind of cameras you need. The security system you have in place can easily be customized with the features you will want. Everything from simple recording to night vision or fully integrated security systems can be set up.
You can choose silent alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, fire alarms, security cameras with audio options, and more! And all of it can be used to ensure your home is protected from all threats- burglary in particular!
What are Other Ways to Deter Criminal Activity Other Than a Camera?
While security cameras and home security systems are a great way to deter criminals and protect your home and family, they are imperfect. They can be tampered with, hacked, turned off, and thwarted at times.
Therefore, it is crucial to have some other measures in place outside the use of a camera or security system. Do security cameras deter crime? Yes, they do, but they can always benefit from some outside help. Here are some simple things to consider for your home:
Light the Place Well
Lights are one of the biggest deterrents to criminals. It makes it difficult for them to sneak around and use the cover of darkness. Exterior lights can be used to light up the home’s perimeter and can easily be programmed to conserve energy.
Lock Your Home Up Tight
Do not make things easier on would-be burglars by leaving windows and doors unsecured. Lock everything up at night or when you are going to be out of the house. A thief who finds a door or window locked usually moves on to an easier target.
Join a Neighborhood Watch
Some neighborhoods, HOAs, and subdivisions have volunteers who help keep an eye on their neighbor’s property. Having a trusted neighbor keep an eye on your property, mail, deliveries, and such can be a great benefit.
Keep Valuables Hidden
All valuables such as cash, credit cards, jewelry, spare keys, and other valuables are easy targets. Keep them away from windows and make sure they are secure. Don’t stash them in obvious places like in a sock or a rock by the door.
Be Careful With Notes
Don’t make it obvious that you are away for an extended period. Don’t leave notes on the door or mailbox. Also, be careful talking about a big trip and sharing public pictures on social media, as thieves can see those as well.
Utilize Beware of Dog Signs
Dogs are a wonderful home security system. Most dogs will bark and make noise when a stranger is around even if they wouldn’t attack. And if you don’t have a dog, a ‘beware of dog’ sign might be deterrent enough.
Get Quality Home Security Cameras for Your Home Security System
Technology has come a long way in the last few decades and a direct result of that is better options for home security. Things like security cameras and home security systems make us safe in our homes.
Of the many ways that exist to protect our homes and property, the home security camera remains one of the most popular and effective. On their own, home camera systems can help add an extra layer of protection for your home or property. Do security cameras deter crime? The answer is a resounding yes. And if you have questions about how to choose the best home security camera for your unique situation and needs, you are in luck!
We invite you to contact us today and let our team of friendly and professional techs help you get precisely what you need! We can easily customize any system and offer personalized packages to meet any specific needs or concerns that you have. There is no better time to make a positive change and protect your home with a camera system. Call us today at 1-833-433-0331 to get started!