With the abundance of DIY home surveillance kits available, many savvy homeowners are taking matters into their own hands to install security cameras. While the installation process might be straightforward, understanding the right locations and angles for placing cameras is crucial for maximizing the safety of your home.
The key consideration in determining camera placement is simple: your home is unique to you. Before diving into the installation process, take a moment to ponder some fundamental questions about your home's surveillance needs. Identify the areas of your home that concern you the most, pinpoint spots on your property that might be less visible to the street or neighbors, and be aware of any local camera placement regulations.
When assessing potential entry points for burglars, keep in mind that over 80 percent of break-ins occur through the first floor, whether via doors or windows. It's crucial to ensure that all entryways to your property are covered. However, avoid placing cameras in low areas where they may be easily accessible to criminals.
If you find that your home lacks secure locations for camera placement, consider exploring protective caging options to safeguard your equipment from tampering. Additionally, take the time to think about any specialized tools required for installation by referring to the camera system's instructions for recommended outfitting requirements.
While the loss of a camera can result in the forfeiture of valuable evidence, there are clever strategies to enhance your safety. Consider placing a visible dummy camera as a deterrent, signaling to potential intruders that your home is closely monitored. This can also serve as a distraction, drawing attention away from hidden cameras that capture illicit activities. Notably, dummy cameras are often more cost-effective to replace than their professional counterparts.
Above all, consider the specific needs of each camera when determining its placement. Cameras cannot effectively focus on multiple ranges and angles simultaneously. For instance, mounting a camera too high may blur facial features but could enhance the chances of capturing a car's license plate when overlooking your driveway.
Ultimately, even imperfectly placed cameras provide better home security than having none at all. However, there's no need to leave your home security to chance. Understanding how to strategically position your first line of defense can keep you safe before and after any security incident, with knowledge serving as your most potent weapon.
