Thirteen seconds - that is all the time it takes before burglars and criminals break into another home in America. Think about this: even before you finish that next bite, a family is placed under absolute danger. Crime does not discriminate. Anyone can be a victim - young or old, rich or poor. But here lies the big difference: Homes without security and alarm systems are 300% more likely to be attacked and broken into. But here’s the catch, only 17% of homes in America have an alarm system and security cameras.
It’s no surprise that more than 2 million home burglaries and intrusions were reported in 2012, according to the latest crime statistics released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). In total, 10 million crimes were reported that year: nearly 9 million property crimes and more than a million violent crimes. Take note, these are only reported crimes. Approximately half of violent crimes and 40% of property crimes do not figure in statistics. But the fact remains - they do happen, everyday.
According to the 2012 National Crime Victimization Survey by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 26 out of every 1,000 people experienced violent crime (rape, robbery, assault). That is a 15% increase compared to previous year. Property crimes increased by 12%. Just this month of February, transportation officials in Boston installed 360-degree live surveillance cameras in all city buses. They are embedded in walls and ceilings to give commuters a sense of safety. If buses, small establishments, schools, churches have surveillance cameras, shouldn't your home, where your children sleep and play, have one too?
Crime-proofing your home
There are a lot you can do to protect your home and the ones you love. There is a wide range of alarm systems and security cameras you can install at your homes and vehicles to deter crimes and put off criminals.
Alarm systems
Alarm systems have their own “brain” to read sensors and signal intrusions. When an intruder opens the door, for example, these alarm systems usually go off using flashing or laser lights, sound of a bell or a siren. Alarm systems may also be combined with surveillance cameras for video recording. Digital Security Controls (DSC) alarm system is a good investment for your home and business. They system’s sensors can detect fire, intrusion or any unauthorized entry.
Security Cameras
Aside from alarm systems, there are a lot of security cameras to choose from. They come in different sizes and are often used interchangeably. But their main function remains to protect your home and give you the power over those who will threaten your family. Wireless surveillance cameras are widely popular among homeowners because these are comparatively small, easy to set up, and may be positioned anywhere within the range of a wireless receiver. The main criticism however is the vulnerability of wireless cameras to hackers. The problem of interference from other devices is also an issue.
Wired surveillance cameras on the other hand require power and data cables from the device and the monitor where the camera’s footage is being played. Wired cameras are usually trickier to install but they normally have better video quality. Hidden surveillance cameras are also usually very portable and like the name suggests, hidden underneath objects and clothes. It is perfect for monitoring people and belongings. They have night vision features too and may be combined with an audio system.
Spy cameras are disguised as ordinary objects you see around the house - wall clock, picture frame, or a pen. As the name suggests, spy cameras for home use or business are designed to capture secret video footage. You have the option to go for wireless spy cameras that you can position and bring anywhere. Covert spy cameras or popularly known as “nanny cams” are also usually disguised as objects. They are so portable they can be installed in a cross pendant of a necklace! It only needs a pinhole for the camera and have motion detection features.
Internet and security
Protecting your home is now made more hi-tech with the Internet Protocol (IP) technology. IP security cameras are often called “netcams.” Unlike closed circuit television (CCTV), an IP camera system receives data from a computer network or the internet. Most IP cameras for home and indoors have analytics features such as audio detection, motion detection, and tampering alarm. IP surveillance cameras can enable remote viewing and recording via IP Communicators. They come in wireless systems too.
Wireless IP cameras may be moved around anywhere on an IP network like wi-fi. IP cameras are not limited to home use. Outdoor IP cameras are normally used to monitor distances exceeding 30 meters. They may be installed along the road or outside business establishments. They have built in network video recording system, usually water proof, weather proof, and with night vision capabilities. Most of these alarm and security systems may be bought for under $100, much less than their cost some decades ago. It is a cheap price to pay to deter criminals, protect your home, and recover your peace of mind.
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