A home security system can mean a lot of different things, from carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to security cameras. While detectors keep you safe from fires, carbon monoxide, and other similar dangers, your alarm system can keep you safe from intruders. As Ring and Nest have become popular, we have found that more and more people are interested in security systems whether it be a camera serving as a video doorbell, or a full-capacity system with 24/7 monitoring. This allows for people to monitor their homes from miles or even countries away. However, did you know that security cameras don't just help you, but could also be a tool for crime control in your community?
The Statistics
According to Arcdyn, out of 422 incarcerated burglars (male and female), 83% of them would check to see if there was an alarm before trying to break into a home. 60% of these incarcerated people said they would choose another target if they identified an alarm system. When it came to surveillance cameras, it was found that 50% of burglars would abandon the robbery if they noticed cameras or tripped an audible alarm, with 37% stating that they would sometimes continue with the robbery, and only 13% stating they would proceed with the robbery despite cameras and alarms.
With these statistics, we can see that alarms and cameras are a strong deterrent when someone is planning or actively attempting to break into your home or steal items from your property. The potential burglar knows that this system drastically increases the chances of them being caught and thus decides to move on to the next target, someone who doesn't have a camera or alarm system.
How it Helps your Community
Your cameras can be an asset to your community. Not only do they potentially deter criminal activity near your home when spotted, but they can also be a resource to your police department. In Georgia counties such as Cherokee and Cobb, police departments have an optional security camera registration. If you choose to participate in this, the police can collect surveillance data from your camera when there is a crime committed in your vicinity. Note: Police offers do not have access to your live feeds. This is only utilized when there is an investigation going on in your area and with your knowledge.
There have been multiple cases in which police were able to collect information that ultimately led to the arrest of criminals. Here are some tips when setting up cameras:
- Identify bottlenecks and place high quality-cameras in these areas (entrances and exits for homes and businesses)
- Add cameras at likely points of entry
- Don't hide your cameras
- Set up motion detection
- Don't point cameras directly at the sun
This is a great opportunity to make your home and community a safer place to be. The good news is that this doesn't just apply for homes. The same tips and camera registration forms apply to businesses. All you have to do is fill out the form with the necessary information and send it to your county police department.
If you're interested in having a security system installed at your home or business, we would be happy to help! Visit our Security Systems page for more information!